What is cranberry juice good for and what do cranberry pills do? In simple terms, they’re a way to get a helpful dose of the nutrients that lead to the following cranberry benefits.
Cranberries contain proanthocyanins.
The natural, antibacterial properties of these compounds may help to reduce the likelihood of infections in the bladder and urinary tract.
Studies support the use of cranberry to prevent recurring UTIs. However, currently cranberry hasn’t been tested sufficiently as a UTI treatment. As a result, there isn’t compelling scientific evidence to support that juice or tablets could cure these infections.
In summary, cranberry juice or tablets could help to weaken the attachment of bacteria to the walls of your urinary tract which could prevent an infection. But it’s less likely they will help if you already have a UTI.
Like other fruits, cranberries are bursting with vitamin C and fibre.
But there are other more standout cranberry benefits too.
This is down to cranberries being a potent source of phytochemicals. When you drink cranberry juice or take a cranberry pill, you’re getting a rich serving of antioxidants.
These antioxidants help to reduce oxidative stress in the body. When your body produces unstable molecules, called free radicals, this can cause oxidative stress. This can contribute to ageing and lead to problems linked with some chronic diseases.8
Rich antioxidant content suggests cranberry products could prevent or slow down damage to cells caused by free radicals.
High cholesterol can increase your risk of a heart attack or stroke.
When excess cholesterol builds up in your arteries, it makes it more difficult for blood to flow freely around your body.
The nutrients in deeply coloured berries, such as cranberries, could help reduce tooth decay, plaque and gum disease.
Like other berries, cranberries are rich in vitamin C – a nutrient that’s well-known for supporting immunity.
As a result, a regular dose of cranberry goodness could help to reduce the number of colds and other bugs that you pick up throughout the year.
A pure, unsweetened cranberry juice is very low in calories and naturally low in sugars.
This has benefits if you’re following a calorie-controlled diet for weight loss.
Summary
You may be wondering, “is it ok to take cranberry pills every day?” The vast majority of people experience no problems when taking cranberry tablets. However, there have been instances of people suffering from stomach aches, abdominal pain, and increased frequency of urination.
People with a history of kidney stones might want to avoid cranberry tablets, as emerging science suggests cranberry tablets can increase the risk of more stones developing.
Those on blood thinners should also avoid cranberry juice, as it may negatively impact the efficacy of the medication.