Cranberry has shown a number of health benefits for men with BPH (benign prostatic hyperplasia) who are looking to restore their prostate health. Cranberry is well-known for its ability to help prevent urinary tract infections as well as urinary symptoms, such as those associated with BPH.
The unique phytonutrients that make cranberries effective in fighting urinary symptoms are proanthocyanidins (PACs), or more specifically, A-type PACs. Only the PACs in cranberries can prevent bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract.
In a study of 42 men who had lower urinary tract symptoms, elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA), negative prostate biopsy, and chronic nonbacterial prostatitis, participants were randomly assigned to take either 1,500 mg of dried powdered cranberries daily for six months or no cranberry supplement. Compared with controls, men who took cranberry showed a significant improvement in lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). The authors commented that their findings were “the first firm evidence that cranberries may ameliorate LUTS, independent of benign prostatic hyperplasia.” (Vidlar 2010)
Reference
Vidlar A et al. The effectiveness of dried cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon) in men with lower urinary tract symptoms. Br J Nutr 2010 Oct; 104(8): 1181-89