For those of us who have suffered with urinary tract infections, we are all too familiar with the benefits of the cranberry. If you haven't heard the good news, you've found a goldmine in this little berry.
However, most of us may not be aware of the history of this little berry. European settlers in North America referred to the berry as a "crane berry" because the vine bared a close resemblance to the head, bill and neck of a crane. After some time, the berry soon became knows as the "cranberry" and has been known to contain a number of key nutrients, including:
- anthocyanins - these are responsible for the deep red color of the cranberry
- proanthocyanins - research shows this to be the antioxidant that is an effective compound in maintaining the overall health of the urinary tract
- quercetin - a beneficial flavonoid that aids in urinary tract health
In 1994, the Journal of the American Medical Association announced a groundbreaking study which showed that the phytochemicals in cranberries are indeed beneficial for the urinary tract. This was confirmed by yet another study published in the British Medical Journal.
In addition, there were two more studies that produced applause for this little berry. In 2002, the Canadian Journal of Urology published their research to have shown that frequent consumption of fresh cranberry juice was associated with maintaining proper urinary tract health. This information was also published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2003.
While the cranberry is known for its benefits for urinary tract health, it is also noted to have numerous other health benefits, including:
- promotion of healthy gums and teeth
- promotion of a healthy stomach
- promotes cognitive thinking by protecting the brain cells
from free radical damage - protection of overall heart health by inhibiting LDL
(the 'bad' boys) cholesterol oxidation
Experts agree that there are various diet and lifestyle changes that can be very helpful for maintaining overall urinary tract health and health and wellness. The following list includes various other things you can do to maintain the health of your urinary tract:
- Drink plenty of fluids each day
- Urinate when you feel the urge, preferrably every 2 hours
- Women should wipe from the front to the back to prevent fecal bacteria from
being introduced to the urinary tract - Avoid carbonated drinks, caffeine and alcohol
- Cleanse the genital area daily and before sexual intercourse
- Urinating after sexual intercourse is helpful for ridding any bacteria that
may have been introduced - Little girls should avoid taking bubble baths or using scented products that may
cause irritation
There are some fantastic products on the market today containing cranberry extract. However, not all products are equal. Research indicates that one should consume 1,000 mg a day for optimal benefits. This is equivalent to 10 oz of pure, undiluted cranberry juice. Can you say "pucker up"?
I find taking a cranberry supplement to be very affordable and convenient, without all the sugar!
Unfortunately, I have suffered over the years and have carried the burden of having had numerous urinary tract infections due to a related kidney disease. I can personally attest to the fact that not all cranberry supplements are created equal. So many of the products on the shelves are filled will cheap ingredients and just aren't as effective as I would like them to be.
If you're interested in finding out how to purchase a cranberry supplement that I believe is superior to what is sold at the local markets, feel free to contact me. You'll save some money and be so thankful to have found a product that actually does what it says it's going to do.
Sabrina Coffin
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