Cranberry

Prevents and treats urinary tract infections (UTIs) by keeping the bacteria from sticking.

Blueberries and Huckleberries have similar properties since they are related to cranberries (Vaccinium family).

Dried Cranberry capsules are available in health food stores or you can just eat more berries or drink cranberry juice:

• To prevent infection: 3 ounces (1/3rd cup) cranberry cocktail a day

• To treat infection: 12 to 32 ounces (1 ½ to 4 cups) cranberry cocktail a day

• Dried cranberry juice extract 300 to 400 mg two to three times a day with a full glass of water. Good Brands:

• Nature’s Way® Cranberry Extract, available at most major retail stores and health food stores

• TruNature® Cranberry Extract, available at Cost-co

Cautions:

• See a health care professional if you're not sure you have a urinary tract infection.

• Like all juices, cranberry juice cocktail contains carbohydrates so use in smaller amounts or choose diet juice if you have diabetes (carbohydrates in food get turned into blood sugar) or take the cranberry pills instead.

-Sara Lee Thomas, RD, rev. 3/2003

Minor editorial revisions by J. Thomas, 2016