How can I prevent bladder infections?

Abstract

There is moderate evidence supporting the use of cranberry juice and tablets to prevent recurrent UTIs in women. Cranberries contain a substance that prevents bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urethra and bladder, inhibiting colonization and spread. The findings regarding men, elderly women or people with neurogenic bladder are inconclusive, although this may be due to a lack of standardized methods within and across studies. In regard to using cranberry for recurrent UTIs in women, the effective dose has not been clearly identified although good results were seen with a quarter cup of concentrate, an 8oz glass of juice or two tablets per day. Side effects may occur, the most common of which is GI upset. More rare effects include oxalate kidney stones and allergic reaction to the aspirin-like components found within cranberry preparations