Cranberry

Cranberries can be really beneficial during a cold due to high content of beneficial nutrients. They are a good source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that plays a role in boosting the immune system. While vitamin C won't cure a cold, it can help shorten its duration and lessen the severity of symptoms [7].

Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, which help fight off free radicals that can damage cells and contribute to illness. These antioxidants can support the body's natural defense system while it's fighting a cold. 

While cranberries are not a cure, they can be very helpful tools to recover easier and faster.

Dried cranberries offer many of the same health benefits as fresh cranberries, but there are key differences due to the drying process. Most dried cranberries contain added sugar to offset their natural tartness, which can increase calorie content and may not be ideal for those monitoring their sugar intake, such as individuals with diabetes. However, drying also concentrates certain nutrients — like fiber — making dried cranberries more fiber-dense per serving. Both fresh and dried cranberries are rich in phytochemicals with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, though levels may vary. For those seeking the benefits without added sugars or calories, a cranberry supplement can provide a convenient, concentrated alternative.

Yes, cranberry extract powder can be a suitable addition to a diabetic diet — as long as it’s free from added sugars or sweeteners. Pure cranberry extract delivers the beneficial compounds such as antioxidants and proanthocyanidins — without the natural sugars present in whole fruit or juice. These compounds may support urinary tract health and help reduce inflammation, both of which can be especially valuable for individuals managing chronic conditions like diabetes.

To ensure safety and effectiveness, always read the ingredient label carefully to confirm the product is unsweetened, and consult your healthcare provider before adding any new supplement to your routine.

The best form of a dietary supplement depends on your lifestyle and wellness goals. Cranberry capsules are the most convenient — easy to take and hassle-free. Liquid extracts offer fast absorption and flexible dosing, ideal for those who prefer not to swallow pills. Powders are perfect for blending into smoothies or recipes, though it's best to choose unsweetened versions to avoid added sugars. Gummies are tasty and easy to take, especially for those who dislike capsules. Traditional tablets are also available, but they may be harder to swallow and slower to digest. Ultimately, the best form is the one that fits seamlessly into your daily routine and encourages consistent use for lasting results.

Cranberry pills are a popular natural option for helping prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs), especially for those who experience them often. They contain concentrated levels of proanthocyanidins (PACs) — plant compounds that help stop E. coli, the bacteria most often behind UTIs, from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract. By blocking this first step in the infection process, cranberry pills may help reduce the chance of repeated infections and support long-term urinary health [8].

1. https://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/health-benefits-cranberries
2. https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/cranberry 
3. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/benefits-of-cranberries 
4. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3823508/ 
5. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/cranberries
6. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/269142 
7. https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-cranberries 
8. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cranberry-pills 
9. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29315597/ 
10. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/cranberries