I spent a week starting each morning with an 8 oz glass of pure, unsweetened cranberry juice to see if its touted benefits—antioxidants, heart support, and UTI prevention—would boost my own health. I was generally healthy beforehand, though I sometimes struggled with digestion and occasional skin breakouts.
The first few days brought a noticeable lift in energy and smoother digestion, despite the juice’s intense tartness. I countered its acidity by hydrating more throughout the day, which helped tame the flavor but didn’t completely mask it.
By day seven, my skin looked a bit clearer and my tummy felt more settled, but I also experienced mild heartburn and occasional acid reflux. These side effects were a reminder that too much acidity can backfire, even with a healthful drink.
In the end, the cranberry juice challenge confirmed that while this tart tonic can offer real perks—especially for digestive comfort and UTI prevention—it’s best enjoyed in moderation. I plan to keep it in my routine, perhaps sipping it every other day or blending it with milder juices to balance taste and acidity.