Cranberry Juice May Not Prevent Urinary Tract Infections, Experts Say

BOSTON (CBS) -- Bladder infections are common and many people turn to cranberry juice for early treatment, but some experts say that may be a waste of time.

More than three million Americans develop a urinary tract infection every year. Most are women, and up to 30 percent of women have recurrent UTIs.

Many patients look for a quick fix and turn to cranberry juice for the answer. Turns out, while taking cranberry tablets can help reduce the risk of UTI, cranberry juice probably does not.

Experts say there isn't a lot of pure cranberry in a serving of cranberry juice and that the compounds responsible for preventing UTIs are gone by the time the liquid reaches the bladder.

Instead of juice, consider cranberry tablets. And some experts say a probiotic, while not proven to be effective yet, may also help.

If, however, you get symptoms that don't go away in a day or two, call your doctor so the infection doesn't become more serious.