Drinking cranberry juice is not a cure-all for everything that ails the urinary system. One instance in which cranberry juice is not recommended is in cases of interstitial
cystitis (IC). Also known as painful bladder disease, interstitial cystitis occurs when the lining of the bladder becomes damaged and allows urine to come into contact with sensitive tissue.
By drinking cranberry juice, which is very acidic, people with interstitial cystitis can find the condition aggravated, and unfortunately, because IC is commonly misdiagnosed as a UTI, cranberry juice is often the first thing women reach for when symptoms occur.
Another negative effect of cranberry juice has to do with dental health. While some evidence suggests the juice can keep bacteria out of the mouth, due to its high acidity, too much cranberry juice may cause the enamel of the teeth to wear thin. Not all juices are pure juice, either, and those with high sugar content will be just as bad for teeth as soda.
People who are diabetics and those with sensitive stomachs should proceed with caution when it comes to cranberry juice consumption. According to the Mayo Clinic, too much cranberry juice may cause stomach upset, diarrhea and elevated blood sugar levels.
In some reported cases, cranberry juice has also been shown to interfere with certain heart medications. The wrong combination of juice and medication may lead to life-threatening internal bleeding. Always consult with your doctor and ask about drug and fruit juice interactions.
