Cranberry and Blueberry

Cranberry and blueberry are two fruits that are often recommended for kidney health. Diabetes causes deterioration to the kidneys, and kidney disease in turn aggravates diabetes. Because of the high incident of those two conditions occurring together, supplements which help with kidney health may be of great value to diabetics.

Both cranberry and blueberry contain a specific acid which makes the urinary tract a less hospitable place for harmful bacteria. They also help to encourage efficient kidney function, and to maintain bladder health.

Cranberry is considered to be the most effective supplement for this purpose, but blueberry contains additional elements which may make it more appropriate for some people. Cranberry is also more easily available as a supplement, and a juice than blueberry.

Watch the content of juices which contain these two fruits. It is very hard to find 100% cranberry juice, and when you do, it is very sour. Mix it with apple or grape juice to sweeten it - apple juice also contains elements which are kidney friendly. Avoid "cocktail" blends, as they are usually low in actual cranberry or blueberry juice, and usually very high in sugar. Read the labels to be sure you are getting what you think you are.

Cranberry is also available in a capsulized supplement, but it takes a LOT of the capsules to equal even a glass of juice.

You can make a cranberry sauce, which can be spread on toast like jam, from fresh or frozen cranberries, Splenda, and a bit of water. Boil it on the stove for about three minutes. It won't jell, but will make a spread that can be used on breads or to accompany chicken or turkey.

Cranberry is so well known for its healthy kidney benefits that even nephrologists will recommend it as a preventive treatment for people with longstanding kidney disease.

Daily consumption (4 oz juice or equivalent) or sometimes twice daily, is frequently recommended.

Written by Laura Wheeler, Owner of Firelight Business Enterprises, Inc.