Cranberries are a native fruit to North America, belonging to the same family as the bilberry and blueberry, and while these tart, red berries have become a traditional and tasty Thanksgiving side dish, did you know that they also contain several health benefits and are often used medicinally as well?
Historically, Native Americans used cranberries to treat bladder and kidney disease, and early English settlers used them to treat poor appetite, stomach complaints, blood disorders, and scurvy.
Through modern science, we now know that cranberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and antibacterial compounds, and today, cranberry supplements are still commonly used to help treat certain bladder conditions. However, cranberry supplements can also help to support cardiovascular and gastrointestinal health, and they may even play a role in preventing cancer.
A few other conditions that cranberries may help prevent or manage include:
Urinary Tract Infections and Prostate Health
Cranberries contain compounds called proanthocyanidins which prevent E. coli bacteria from attaching to the lining of the urethra and bladder, and therefore reduce the chance of infection. In fact, human studies have shown that taking cranberry pills for two or more months can significantly reduce the frequency of UTIs in women.
According to another study, cranberry powder may also help with symptoms of lower urinary tract problems for men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
Cranberries act as a natural acidifier that help to prevent alkaline urinary calculi (bladder stones) and the powder form can be taken not only by people, but also fed to horses, cats, and dogs for the same purposes.
Side Effects of Cranberry Supplements
It’s important to note that cranberry supplements may increase the effects of certain blood-thinning medications or supplements, so it’s important to avoid taking cranberry supplements if you take this type of medication. Anyone with diabetes, kidney stones, or blood clotting disorders should also consult their doctor before using a cranberry supplement.
Our cranberry powder is a dried, pure, human-grade product that can be taken by people or given to animals. When administering this product, we recommend starting with a small amount and then working your way up to the recommended dose.
Here are the recommended dosages for our product:
Small cats and dogs up to 30 lbs (6 weeks of age and over): Feed 1/4 teaspoon twice per day sprinkled in food.
Large Dogs 51 to 75 lbs: Feed 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon twice per day in food.
X-Large Dogs over 76 lbs: Feed 3/4 teaspoon twice per day in food.
Horses: 1000 lbs. or more 1–3 tablespoons per day mixed in feed.
People: 1/4 teaspoon 3 times per day in filtered water (3/4 teaspoon daily).
Note: Do not feed to cranberry powder to cats with a urinary pH below 6.6. Consult with your veterinarian for a urinalysis.
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