Urinary Tract Infections: A Common Health Issue by Stéphanie Hinse, Naturopath

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) bring confusion, frustration, and complications to everyone’s lives, but especially to women. They are recognized by a burning sensation during urination, frequent urges to urinate, an unusual odor, and cloudy urine. Most of these infections are caused by a bacterial imbalance (mainly due to E. coli).

How can you reduce your risk of infection?

Cranberries have been used for their beneficial effects on the urinary system for centuries. Both Indigenous peoples and Europeans understood that extracts from this plant had an effect on UTI symptoms. The bioactive compounds in cranberries, particularly proanthocyanidins (PACs), found in cranberry-derived products, have the ability to inhibit bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract. This property is essential in preventing bacterial colonization and reducing the risk of infection.

A Cochrane systematic review(1) analyzed 50 studies involving 8,857 participants and concluded that cranberry products reduce the risk of UTIs in certain populations, particularly women with recurrent infections, children, and individuals who have undergone specific medical procedures. The power of such a small berry can significantly improve the quality of life for these individuals, who often have limited options beyond antibiotic treatments—treatments that can disrupt the entire bacterial flora, both good and bad.

In addition to supporting urinary tract health, cranberries are a superfood with numerous benefits for cardiovascular, digestive, immune, and cognitive health. Their protective effects come from their richness in antioxidants and bioactive compounds. However, to fully benefit from their properties, it is preferable to consume concentrated extracts.

Immunia’s cranberry extracts are known for their multiple health benefits, far beyond their role in UTI prevention.

Fruitomed’s Immunia Urinary Health combines a concentrated cranberry extract with an elderberry extract from Canada. This unique combination leverages the complementary properties of these two small fruits:

•Cranberry: Prevents bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract.

•Elderberry: Possesses anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe irritated urinary pathways.

This powerful duo is based on a high concentration of polyphenols, antioxidant molecules that help neutralize free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative stress and cellular aging. These compounds also act as prebiotics, contributing to the balance of the gut microbiota.(2)

I recommend that all my clients use Immunia’s cold-pressed cranberry and elderberry extracts at the first sign of urinary discomfort. Store-bought juices contain large amounts of sugar, which can significantly disrupt the flora when consumed daily.

If you suffer from recurrent UTIs, consult a healthcare professional, ensure adequate hydration, opt for cotton underwear, avoid tight clothing, urinate frequently, and maintain good intimate hygiene.

And at home, arm yourself with Immunia Urinary Health, because as a naturopath, I know that the key to long-term health lies in prevention.

Stéphanie Hinse, ND

February 12, 2025

References

Cranberries for preventing urinary tract infections.

Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2023, Issue 11. Art. No.: CD001321.

Gut Microbiota Dysbiosis in Metabolic Diseases Related to Obesity and Prebiotic Potential of Polyphenol-Rich Extracts.

Faculty of Medicine, Cardiology Axis of the Québec Heart and Lung Institute, Laval University, Hôpital Laval, Québec. Curr Obes 2015 Dec;4(4):389-400.