Part 2/4:
The key component believed to contribute to the effectiveness of cranberry juice and supplements is a compound known as proanthocyanidins (PACs). These compounds are responsible for preventing the most common type of bacteria that causes UTIs, Escherichia coli (E. coli), from adhering to the bladder wall. This mechanism provides a scientific basis for considering cranberry products as beneficial in reducing UTI occurrences, especially for those who have recurrent infections.
The Questions that Remain
Despite the promising role of PACs, several critical questions linger regarding the optimal use of cranberry for UTI prevention: