CRANBERRY EXTRACT AND YOU

Kidneys are a pair of bean-shaped organs that filter blood and remove waste and excess water from your body. Factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure and family history increase the risk of kidney diseases, such as kidney stones, kidney infections cancer and kidney failure. Kidney diseases are often asymptomatic. The treatment could involve medications and surgery. Certain supplements and natural foods, such as cranberry, could help cleanse the kidneys and ward off diseases

 Cranberry

The red-black, ripe fruits of the cranberry, or Vaccinium macrocarpon, plant possess immense medicinal and commercial value. The fruit is a rich source of antioxidant proanthocyanidins, which help prevent free-radical mediated damage of various cells and organs. Apart from the fresh fruit and juice, supplements are also available as capsules and tablets. Your doctor might recommend the supplements to help treat a variety of conditions, including urinary tract infections, ulcers, heart disease and certain cancers. The dose may vary, depending on your age and overall health. Talk to your doctor to find the dose and form that is right for you.

 Cleansing the Kidneys

 Cranberry juice is a powerful cleanser of the kidneys. It helps remove excess water from the organs via kidneys and helps break down the fatty tissue in the body, A study published in the April-June 2010 issue of the “International Journal Immunopathology and Pharmacology” found that cranberry extracts prevent the adhesion of bacteria on the epithelial cells of the kidneys, thereby helping prevent kidney infections. A November 2003 study reported in the journal “BJU International” states that cranberry juice possesses significant anti-lithogenic activity and might reduce the risk of kidney stones.

Cranberry juice contains phytochemicals, which may help prevent cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Bottom line cranberry juice is high in oxalate, and has been suggested to increase the risk for developing kidney stones, although more recent studies have indicated it may lower the risk.