Women/Digestion/Heart

Cranberry

Fruit extract rich in proanthocyanidins that may reduce recurrent UTIs in women and offers weak cardiovascular support.

Cranberry

Fruit extract rich in proanthocyanidins that may reduce recurrent UTIs in women and offers weak cardiovascular support.

score

evidence

Caution

risk

Proven Benefits

01Reduces recurrent UTI risk

02May support H. pylori eradication

03May lower blood pressure

04May improve vascular function

Chemical Forms

Recommended

Cranberry extract standardized to A-type PACs
Whole cranberry powder
Cranberry juice (low sugar)

Avoid

Cranberry juice cocktail (high sugar, low PACs)
Unstandardized dried berry capsules (unknown PAC content)

Expert Note

Standardized extracts with measured A-type proanthocyanidins (PACs), typically 36 mg per day, are the forms used in UTI trials and provide the most reliable dosing. Sweetened juice cocktails contain far fewer active compounds relative to their sugar load, and unstandardized powders vary widely in PAC content.

Protocol

Amount

36 mg PACs

Frequency

Once daily

When

With a meal or water; consistency matters more than timing. Take with food if stomach upset occurs.

Condition-Based Dosing

Recurrent uncomplicated UTIs in women

36 mg PACs daily for at least 6 months— Benefit appears modest and may not prevent all infections; discontinue if no reduction after 6 months.

General cardiovascular support

36-72 mg PACs daily— Evidence is weaker in this population; prioritize diet and exercise.

Safety & Limits

Upper Safe Limit

No established UL; up to 1200 mg/day of cranberry extract studied without serious adverse effects

Cycling

Safe for continuous use

Contraindications

History of calcium oxalate kidney stones — cranberry may increase oxalate exposure in susceptible people

Warfarin or other anticoagulants — possible INR changes; monitor closely

Updated Invalid Date