AZO Cranberry Urinary Tract Health Supplement

Proanthocyanidin-rich extracts from cranberry fruit (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.) selectively inhibit the growth of human pathogenic fungi Candida spp. and Cryptococcus neoformans.

Most Relevant Research

We explored how extracts from cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) can affect human fungal pathogens, particularly yeast infections. Our focus was on specific strains like Candida glabrata, Candida lusitaniae, and Candida krusei, along with Cryptococcus neoformans, the latter being notorious for causing fungal meningitis.

In our testing, we found that proanthocyanidin fractions from whole cranberry fruit showed significant antifungal properties. Through a broth microdilution assay, these extracts inhibited the growth of the targeted fungi, with minimum inhibitory concentrations starting as low as 1 μg/mL.

Further analysis revealed that larger oligomers of epicatechin, detected through MALDI-TOF MS, had the strongest inhibitory effects. This research supports the idea that cranberry could be a potential natural antifungal agent, adding a new dimension to its previously known benefits against bacterial infections.

9.5

Effective treatment.

Most Useful Review

It does work. I have been suffering from bladder infections, UTIs, and yeast infections for over a year. After numerous prescriptions for pain and antibiotics, I was sceptical about the cranberry pills but decided to try them as the price was reasonable. Initially, I didn't notice much change, but after two weeks, I felt the full effect. No more frequent urges to urinate, pain while peeing, or pressure in my lower stomach. My urine no longer looks cloudy or smells awful. If you're considering this, go for it; I've saved money on doctor visits and prescriptions.

Ear Infection details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE

Moderately Effective

Based on 3 Researches

Vitamin C aids ear infection recovery

Malignant external otitis and polymorphonuclear leukocyte migration impairment. Improvement with ascorbic acid.

Most Relevant Research

We observed that malignant external otitis (MEO), a severe infection of the outer ear often found in elderly patients with uncontrolled diabetes, can significantly impair the body's defense mechanisms. In a notable case, a 58-year-old man struggling with MEO had faced months of ineffective treatments.

To delve deeper, we tested the function of his immune cells, specifically his polymorphonuclear neutrophil leukocytes (PMNs), which play a crucial role in fighting infections. Our findings revealed that his PMNs had difficulty migrating to the site of infection, a critical step for addressing such health issues.

We discovered that ascorbic acid, commonly known as vitamin C, could improve this migration defect in laboratory tests. In practical terms, after just one month of vitamin C treatment, the patient's chemotaxis results normalized, and remarkably, his ear lesions began to heal.

Even though the exact reasons for the PMN dysfunction remain unclear, possibly due to factors like age and diabetes, this case highlights the importance of assessing PMN function in MEO patients and suggests that immunomodulators like vitamin C might offer a valuable treatment pathway.

9.5

Pain relief achieved

Most Useful Review

This product works for me. I've dealt with bladder infections, UTIs, and yeast for over a year, trying numerous prescriptions for pain and antibiotics for infection. After taking cranberry pills, especially this one, I noticed a significant improvement. Initially sceptical, I began feeling the positive effects after two weeks. I no longer experience frequent urges to urinate, pain during urination, or pressure in my lower abdomen. This pill has spared me another trip to the doctor and saved me money.

Kidney Infection details

It really works! I dealt with bladder infections, UTIs, and yeast infections for over a year, which led to numerous prescriptions. After starting on these cranberry pills, the frequent bathroom urges, pain during urination, and cloudy urine disappeared within two weeks. This product saved me from more doctor visits and costs related to ineffective antibiotics.

Kidney Stones details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE

Questionable

Based on 10 Researches

Cranberry juice reduces stone risk

Influence of cranberry juice on the urinary risk factors for calcium oxalate kidney stone formation.

Most Relevant Research

We explored how cranberry juice, specifically vaccinium macrocarpon, influences the risk factors for developing calcium oxalate kidney stones. In a well-structured study, 20 South African men participated in a randomized cross-over trial. Some of them drank cranberry juice mixed with water for two weeks, while the others consumed only water. After a short break, the two groups switched their drinks to compare results.

Our findings revealed that cranberry juice significantly altered urinary risk factors associated with kidney stones. We observed a decrease in oxalate and phosphate excretion, alongside an increase in citrate excretion. This change resulted in lower relative supersaturation of calcium oxalate compared to just drinking water.

Overall, these results suggest that cranberry juice has potential antilithogenic properties, making it a viable conservative option for managing calcium oxalate kidney stones. Given its influence on urine chemistry, cranberry juice could be considered as part of a preventive strategy against kidney stones.

9.5

Oxalate count confidence

Most Useful Review

As a 58-year-old male who suffers from UTIs and kidney stones, I wish I had discovered this product earlier. I just started taking it and hope it prevents my future UTIs. The oxalate count is remarkably low, making it safe for kidney stone sufferers to enjoy the health benefits of cranberry.

Leg Cramps details

Leg cramps treatment comparison

Calcium and magnesium status in pregnant women. A comparison between treatment with calcium and vitamin C in pregnant women with leg cramps.

Most Relevant Research

We explored the effects of vitamin C on leg cramps in a group of 60 pregnant women through a double-blind trial. Participants received either calcium or vitamin C (1 g twice daily) as treatment. Our observations revealed that there was no significant difference in clinical improvement between the two treatment groups.

Notably, 14 patients experienced complete relief from symptoms, while 27 reported significant improvement regardless of which treatment they received. Unfortunately, 17 participants found their symptoms unchanged, and only two noticed an increase in leg cramps during the treatment period.

Throughout the study, we measured serum levels of total and ionized calcium, total magnesium, and albumin, but these parameters did not show significant changes in either treatment group. We also didn’t identify any biochemical differences when comparing the effectiveness of vitamin C and calcium for alleviating cramps.

Ultimately, our findings suggest that vitamin C may not be an effective solution for leg cramps in pregnant women, as both treatments yielded similar results with minimal biochemical changes.

9.5

Leg cramps eliminated

Most Useful Review

After eating for a week, it feels substantial, and the cramping sensation entirely vanished after I urinated.

Pelvic Pain details

Cured urinary infection

Most Useful Review

I've suffered from cystitis for five years, often waking in pain. After taking two pills before bed for a week, I felt relaxed and the bacteria were gone. If you have a prolonged urinary tract infection, I recommend it highly.

Cancer details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE

Possibly Effective

Based on 17 Researches

Cranberry reduces colon cancer risk

Chemopreventive Effects of Whole Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) on Colitis-Associated Colon Tumorigenesis.

Most Relevant Research

We explored the impact of whole cranberry powder (WCP) on preventing colon cancer in a study that involved mice with colitis-induced tumorigenesis. By incorporating WCP into the diet of these mice, we found that it significantly reduced the incidence and size of tumors compared to those that did not receive the cranberry treatment.

The findings highlighted a notable decrease in inflammatory markers, suggesting that WCP may play a vital role in relaxing the body's inflammatory response. Specifically, levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α were markedly lower in the WCP-treated mice, indicating that the powder may help to counteract the processes that lead to tumor growth.

Additionally, WCP demonstrated its ability to influence various cellular pathways that are critical in cancer development, including those related to inflammation, cell growth, and even potential metastasis. This evidence supports the hypothesis that whole cranberry can be a beneficial addition to our diets when aiming to promote colon health and reduce the risk of cancer.

8.8

Prevents infections

Most Useful Review

This product is excellent as it helps balance my bladder pH and prevents me from having UTIs. It is also a great antioxidant beneficial for both men and women while helping to prevent cancer.

Urinary Tract Infection details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE

Possibly Effective

Based on 26 Researches

Cranberry products may reduce UTIs

The prevention of urinary tract infections in aged care residents through the use of cranberry products: a critical analysis of the literature.

Most Relevant Research

We explored the impact of vaccinium macrocarpon, commonly known as cranberry, on preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs) in aged care residents. The current evidence suggests that cranberry products may help reduce the frequency of UTIs among this demographic, particularly for those who are at heightened risk. However, we noted that the findings are somewhat mixed and incomplete, largely due to insufficient understanding of the active components in cranberries, specifically proanthocyanins.

This analysis highlights the potential benefits of cranberry products for UTI prevention, while also acknowledging the need for further research and education. By better understanding these preventive measures, we could lower antibiotic usage and decrease UTI occurrences in residential aged care settings.

9.5

Effective treatment

Most Useful Review

Every winter, I suffer from urinary tract infection, often affecting my kidneys. I drink a course of antibiotics monthly. However, taking two cranberry tablets daily from the start of winter resolves this issue, as proven over several years. I opt for different brands based on discounts, and this budget option has worked just as well. As long as the concentration is no less than 500, I'm satisfied.

High Cholesterol details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE

Possibly Effective

Based on 14 Researches

Vitamin C reduces cholesterol levels

Effect of Using Vitamin C Supplementation on Performance, Blood Parameters, Carcass Characteristics and Meat Quality of Broiler Chickens Under Heat Stress Condition: A Meta-Analysis.

Most Relevant Research

We explored how vitamin C supplementation affects cholesterol levels in broiler chickens, particularly under heat stress conditions. Through a thorough meta-analysis of 35 studies conducted between 1985 and 2023, we assessed various performance metrics, including blood parameters, carcass characteristics, and overall meat quality.

Our findings revealed that vitamin C significantly reduced cholesterol levels in the broiler chickens subjected to heat stress. Specifically, the study reported a notable decrease in cholesterol concentrations, with a standard mean difference of -0.976, indicating a strong beneficial effect of vitamin C in managing high cholesterol.

Additionally, we noticed improvements in body weight and average daily gain among chickens receiving vitamin C when compared to those that did not. While vitamin C did not significantly impact feed intake or breast meat quality, it emerged as a valuable antioxidant that can help lower blood triglycerides and reduce cholesterol, thus promoting better overall health and growth in broilers during stressful conditions.

Ultimately, this meta-analysis supports the use of vitamin C at a recommended dosage of 250 mg/kg as an effective growth promoter and antioxidant in broiler diets under heat stress, directly influencing cholesterol management.

6.3

Reduced uric acid

Most Useful Review

I purchased this for my husband when he had high levels of uric acid, and he mentioned it helped lower his uric acid levels.

Back Pain details

SCIENTIFIC SCORE

Questionable

Based on 4 Researches

Vitamin C's limited impact on pain

The Efficacy of Vitamin C on Postoperative Outcomes after Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

Most Relevant Research

We conducted a year-long study to investigate the effects of vitamin C on postoperative pain and recovery after a specific type of spine surgery known as posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF). In this randomized, placebo-controlled trial, we worked with 123 patients, dividing them into two groups: one receiving vitamin C and the other a placebo.

Our main focus was to see how vitamin C influenced lower back pain measured by a visual analogue scale. While we found that there was no significant difference in pain levels at the one-year mark between the two groups, there was a silver lining. We observed that vitamin C appeared to enhance functional improvement, especially within the first three months after surgery.

So, while vitamin C didn’t seem to directly reduce pain intensity after surgery, it could play a role in supporting early recovery and everyday function. This finding may encourage further exploration into vitamin C's potential benefits in postoperative care for patients undergoing spine surgeries.

8.3

Pain relief noted

Most Useful Review

Good, I consumed this and my bladder pain was alleviated.

Chronic Cough details

No relief experienced

Most Useful Review

Unfortunately, it didn’t help me at all. I suffer from chronic cough and had hoped this medication would alleviate my symptoms, but it did not provide any relief from the pain.