The Diuretic Effect Of Cranberry Juice

Diuretics enable your body to get rid of excess fluid and sodium, which can benefit conditions such as high blood pressure and heart failure. They work by increasing urine production in the kidneys. Although diuretics are available and medications, natural foods and beverages such as cranberry juice also have a diuretic effect. If you have a health problem such as hypertension, get more advice from your doctor about drinking cranberry juice.

About Cranberries

Cranberry, or Vaccinium macrocarpon, is native to North America. It has long been used as a food, and for medicine to treat conditions such as stomach ailments, diarrhea, diabetes and wounds. It is also well-known as a home remedy for prevention of urinary tract infections, though antibiotics remain the most effective preventative, according to a July 2011 report by Reuters. Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, especially proanthocyanidins, which are responsible for their color. As antioxidants, they protect cells in your body from free radical damage.

Diuretic Nutrients in Cranberry Juice

Ascorbic acid, more commonly known as vitamin C, is a diuretic. One cup of unsweetened cranberry juice contains 23.5 mg of vitamin C, which is substantial considering that the recommended daily allowance for women age 19 and older is 75 mg; for men of the same age, it is 90 mg, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Cranberries also contain the glucoside arbutin, which also acts has diuretic properties.

Amount

Adults can drink about 8 to 12 oz. of 100-percent fruit juice daily, according to the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Whenever possible, buy unsweetened cranberry juice or make your own at home from frozen, dried or raw cranberries. Store-bought cranberry juice can be loaded with fattening sugar calories as well as sodium, which causes your body to retain water, not eliminate it.

Precautions

Cranberry juice is generally safe to consume; however, drinking too much of it can cause diarrhea, heartburn or stomach upset. Also, considering cranberry juice's diuretic effects; drink enough water so you do not become dehydrated when using cranberry juice. Speak to your doctor about taking cranberry juice if you are taking diuretic or blood-thinning drugs, or other medications such as those that affect the liver.