Cranberry Extract
Commonly used for
Healthy AgingUrinary Tract Health
Where to Buy
Our experts personally review each product we recommend for quality and cost effectiveness.
The cheapest product is usually low quality, but more expensive doesn’t always mean better.
The cheapest product is usually low quality, but more expensive doesn’t always mean better.
What is it? / Overview
Cranberry contains proanthocyanidins that reduce the ability of certain bacteria particularly E. coli to adhere to the urinary tract. It helps prevent recurrent UTIs but does not treat active infections.
How is it used? / Administration
Form: Standardized cranberry extract (proanthocyanidins — PACs)
Typical dose studied: 36 mg PACs/day
Timing: Once daily with food
Not a substitute for antibiotics when infection is present. Choose standardized products providing 36 mg PACs.
How well does it work? / Evidence
~ Moderate evidence
Who should avoid it?
Avoid with: Kidney stones / Nephrolithiasis
Interacts with: Warfarin — possible interaction
Already taking it? Continue only if reducing UTI frequency.
Research & references
Cochrane Review: Cranberries for Preventing UTIs. European Association of Urology Guidelines. Fu Z et al. Cranberry meta-analysis.
Disclosure: Knozela is a participant in the Amazon Associates affiliate program. Some "Where to buy" links on this page are affiliate links -- if you make a purchase through them, Knozela may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.