I know, you have heard it before, that Cranberry Juice is helpful in getting over urinary tract infections. I have seen that this is true in many of my patients, but with no hard scientific evidence, it was often hard to convince some patients that it was truly helpful. Some, including myself, even speculated that the most benefit from cranberry juice was the increased consumption of fluids, resulting in increased urine flow.
Most urinary tract infections (UTI) are caused by a particular strain of the bacteria E. coli. This strain of E. coli is covered with small hair-like projections known as fimbriae which act like hooks and latch onto cells that line the urinary tract. When enough of the bacteria attach themselves to the cells along the urinary tract, it causes an infection.
A group of scientists at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) have found that the fimbriae of the E. coli bacteria are affected by cranberry juice, causing them to change shape and detach from the urinary tract cells. As the attachment weakens, urinary flow then is capable of washing away the weakened invasive bacteria.
So, it appears that Mom has been right all along, and now there is scientific evidence as to what is happening. If you or someone you know is having troubles with urinary tract infections, cranberry juice is a healthy and affective first line of defense. Try it before you run to your doctor for an antibiotic.
Keith E. Biggs, DC
3617 E. Southern, Suite 8
Mesa, AZ 85206
www.eastmesachiropractor.com
biggschiropractic@gmail.com
Office: 480-985-3334
Cell: 480-375-0068
No comments:
Post a Comment