Researchers at F1000, a global faculty of medical experts, believe that cranberry juice and cranberry pills do little to reduce the risk of urinary tract infections. Not only do they feel that cranberry juice is ineffective for prevention of urinary tract infections, but they’re concerned about the side effects of cranberry juice and pills which can include digestive upset and weight gain due to the calories and sugar found in cranberry juice.

This insight flies in the face of several recent studies showing that cranberry juice help to protect against urinary tract infections. A study conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan and Rutgers University showed that regularly drinking cranberry juice helps to eradicate problem bacteria in the urinary tract that could lead to a urinary tract infection. These researchers found that drinking as little as eight ounces of cranberry juice reduced the number of potential infection causing bacteria lining the walls of the urinary tract. They also noted that drinking cranberry juice twice a day was more effective than only once since the antibacterial effects last for a short period of time.

Researchers even believe they have it figured out why cranberry juice helps to reduce the risk of urinary tract infections. Cranberry juice contains proanthocyanidins, a type of flavonoid that binds to bacteria and prevents them from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract. The bacteria can then be flushed out of the body in the urine.

Why the discrepancy regarding the effectiveness of cranberry juice for urinary tract infections? One problem is there are so many forms of cranberry including juice, fresh cranberries, and cranberry pills. Various studies have used different forms which could alter the outcome. Plus, no one is sure exactly how much cranberry is needed to actually protect against urinary tract infections. This makes it difficult to know how effective cranberries and cranberry juice really are.

The bottom line? It’s not entirely clear whether cranberry juice protects against urinary tract infections; but cranberries and their juice have a variety of interesting health properties that makes them a good food to eat. To avoid excess calories, get a sugar-free cranberry juice or cranberry concentrate and give it a try if you’re susceptible to urinary tract infections. At the very least, you’ll be supplying your body with a healthy dose of antioxidants.