Kamal Ghorui
For a long time people have been using cranberries to help with urinary tract infections (UTIs). Of drinking sugary cranberry juice many are now turning to cranberry tea. This warm and comforting drink is becoming a choice.Cranberry tea does more than warm you up on a cold day. It has plant compounds that can help protect your bladder and urinary tract.What is Cranberry Tea?Cranberry tea is made by putting dried cranberries, cranberry pieces or tea leaves with cranberry flavor in water. Unlike cranberry juices that’re often sweet and lack fiber, cranberry tea has the good stuff from the fruit without the added sugar. It is a drink that helps your body flush out bad stuff.Can it really fix a UTI?To see how cranberry tea works, we need to look at the bacteria that cause UTIs. Most UTIs are caused by E. Coli bacteria. The power of PACSCranberries have antioxidants called proanthocyanidins (PACs). Studies have shown that these PACs can stop E. Coli bacteria from sticking to the bladder wall. This helps the bacteria get flushed out of the body when you relieve yourself.The role of HydrationFrom ancient beliefs to experts, it is believed that staying hydrated always helps flush out toxins and helps get rid of infections. Drinking cranberry tea helps in two ways: you get the benefits of PACs, and You drink a lot of fluid to wash the bacteria out.Key Health Benefits of Cranberry TeaCranberry tea can help in ways It is rich in Vitamin C, which boosts your immune system and helps make your urine acidic, making it hard for bacteria to grow. It has antioxidants that protect your cells from damage and inflammation.It supports heart health by improving cholesterol levels and arterial health. Lastly, it promotes gut health by balancing the bad bacteria in your digestive system.How to make Cranberry TeaTo get the benefit from cranberry tea avoid adding artificial sweeteners and keep the ingredients simple.* 1 cup of fresh or unsweetened dried cranberries* 2 cups of filtered water* Optional: A slice of fresh ginger or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice* Optional: A tiny bit of raw honey (if you find it too tart)Instructions:1. Boil water and cranberries in a small saucepan.2. Reduce heat. Let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. Mash the cranberries to release their juices.3. Remove from heat cover and let it steep for 5 minutes.4. Strain the liquid into your mug and enjoy it warm.How Much to DrinkIf you are using cranberry tea to prevent UTIs or at the sign of bladder irritation drink 2 to 3 cups per day. Also drink plenty of water to keep your kidneys working well.DisclaimerWhile cranberry tea is a home remedy for preventing UTIs and managing mild irritation it is not a cure, for severe infections. If you have a fever, severe pain, nausea or blood in your urine see a doctor right away for proper treatment.
