Although cranberry juice is safe to consume in moderation, drinking too much can cause side effects such as upset stomach, diarrhea, and blood sugar spikes.
In the past, it was believed that cranberry juice can slow the growth of bacteria and therefore is useful in treating urinary tract infections. However, recent studies have shown that although cranberry juice may help prevent bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract wall, it doesn’t do enough to make a significant difference.
Cranberry juice is high in salicylic acid, which may alleviate swelling and blood clots in the body. Therefore, it may do more for boosting heart health than urinary tract health.
Who should exercise caution when drinking cranberry juice?
Cranberry juice should be used with caution if you have the following conditions:
- Diabetes: Sweetened cranberry juice can cause blood sugar spikes due to the presence of added sugar.
- Kidney stones: Cranberry juice is high in oxalates, which can lead to kidney stones.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Since there isn’t much information regarding the safety of drinking cranberry juice while pregnant, most experts recommend avoiding cranberry juice if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Aspirin allergy: Aspirin is similar to salicylic acid. Since cranberry juice contains a significant amount of salicylic acid, it is best to avoid drinking it if you are allergic to aspirin.
- Blood thinner medications: Some studies report that cranberries can react negatively with blood thinners such as warfarin.
Cranberry juice may interact with the following medications:
If you are taking these medications, consult your doctor about how much cranberry juice is safe to consume.
SLIDESHOW
Foods That Aren't as Healthy as You Think See SlideshowWhat are the health benefits of cranberry juice?
Although there are side effects to drinking excessive amounts, cranberry juice is loaded with vitamin C and is good for you in moderation:
- Acts as a powerful antioxidant: Antioxidants prevent free radicals from damaging your cells and can protect against chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
- Boosts immune system: Vitamin C in cranberry juice helps fight bacterial and viral infections. According to one study, cranberries can eliminate norovirus—a common cause of foodborne illness.
- Improves heart health: Studies report that cranberry juice can reduce blood pressure and body mass index, which can contribute to heart health.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Water | 87.1 grams |
| Energy | 46 kcal |
| Protein | 0.39 grams |
| Total fat | 0.13 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 12.2 grams |
| Fiber | 0.1 grams |
| Sugar | 12.1 grams |
| Calcium | 8 mg |
| Iron | 0.25 mg |
| Magnesium | 6 mg |
| Phosphorus | 13 mg |
| Potassium | 77 mg |
| Sodium | 2 mg |
| Zinc | 0.1 mg |
| Copper | 0.055 mg |
| Selenium | 0.1 µg |
| Vitamin C | 9.3 mg |
| Thiamin | 0.009 mg |
| Riboflavin | 0.018 mg |
| Niacin | 0.091 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.052 mg |
| Vitamin A | 45 IU |
| Vitamin E | 1.2 mg |
| Vitamin K | 5.1 µg |
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Medically Reviewed on 12/23/2021
References
Image Source: iStock Images
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-958/cranberry
https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-cranberry-juice
https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/168117/nutrients
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/cranberry
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-958/cranberry
https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-cranberry-juice
https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/168117/nutrients
https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/cranberry
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