The use of cranberries is not new to those of us who live in the United States because they often grace our Thanksgiving tables in some form or another—like pies, tarts and jellies. Cranberries have had a key place in American culture as an important food, dye and medicine dating as far back as the 16th century.
One primary use of cranberries today is for supporting urinary tract function, which is a very important concern for some individuals. It was once thought that cranberries changed the pH of urine and that was the reason why cranberries were able to maintain urinary tract health. However, today, that theory has changed. It is suspected that cranberries may help prevent certain cells from adhering to urinary tract walls which support proper functioning.†
Cranberries also have antioxidant properties, which can be helpful to support general wellness.