You’ve already been introduced to the delicious cranberries. This fruit, which is full of nutrients and antioxidants, is currently being studied because of its potential role in the prevention of some diseases.
Cranberries can be found in many different forms: fresh fruit, jams, marmalades. The most popular way of consuming cranberries is as a juice. You can find cranberry juice at the supermarket during any season of the year. The “cocktail” type of juice is the one that has been most extensively studied. 
Based on the results of several studies, like the one performed by Dr. Amy Howell at Rutgers University in New Jersey, we now know that cranberry juice helps to preventurinary tract infections by reducing the adhesion of bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, to the urinary tract. The use of cranberry juice in the prevention of infections by Helicobacter pylori (a type of bacteria that may cause stomach ulcers), is also very promising.
For the prevention of urinary tract infections, the National Institute of Health has provided the general recommendation of drinking 3 to 16 ounces of cocktail-type cranberry juice each day or half to one ounce of 100% natural cranberry juice (no sugar added).
It is important to mention that cranberry juice is not effective for the treatmentof infections or other diseases, so you should not use it in place of seeking medical treatment. You should always consult your doctor or health care provider about any concerns you have with your health.
An additional benefit of cranberry juice is its high content of vitamin C (one glass has around 107 mg). It also contains flavonoids (antioxidants) and other substances that can help protect your heart and body. If you like to begin your day with a refreshing glass of juice, try cranberry juice for a change, preferably with no sugar added.
Source:
Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon). (2008) Medline Plus. Drugs and Supplements. Retrieved in September, 2008 from http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/print/druginfo/natural/patient-cranberry.html
