Cranberry
Vaccinnium macropon Member of
the blueberry family. Cranberry has long
been revered as a folk remedy for relief
from urinary tract infections. Only recent
research has unlocked the reason behind
cranberry’s healing abilities. In
the late 1980s, researchers in Ohio’s
Alliance City Hospital and Utah’s
Weber State University discovered a substance
in cranberry that attaches to the E. Coli
bacteria and prevents the bacteria from
adhering to the bladder wall. Because of
this, the bacteria is easily flushed out
with other waste products and thus leaving
the bacteria no time to start any infections
in the bladder.
Many other fruits have been analysed, but
only cranberry and blueberry has been found
to be effective against the E. coli bacteria
that causes urinary tract infections.
Other benefits of cranberry: A study carried
out by researchers at the University of
Illinois concluded that chemical compounds
found in cranberry and blueberry showed
strong potential to inhibit the growth and
spread of cancer tumours.
Cranberries are also a good source of Vitamin
C. Which is well regarded as a potent
antioxidant, cancer preventive, immune booster
and also male fertility enhancer.
Availability
Easily available in pharmacies and health
food stores. If buying in liquid form, read
the label carefully, as they vary from 10%
to 100% juice extract. Try to avoid those
with added sugar.(Sugar
is bad for health, and is a nutrient
destroyer.)
Dehydrated cranberry in capsule form is
more potent. Follow instructions on the
label closely.
Dosage
No established recommended dosage. Half
cup of cranberry juice 3 times a day would
be a good amount.
Contraindications
None known, and is considered very safe.
Please check labels closely, if diabetic,
avoid those with added sugar.
Additional tips to reduce the risk
of bladder and urinary tract infections
1) Drink plenty of water
The more water that flushes through your
body system, the less chance the bacteria
has to remain in the body and start an infection.
2) Urinate often and completely.
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