What Is Vitality Works Cranberry?
Vitality Works Cranberry is a natural supplement that can be used to treat urinary tract infections and it is the subject of our review today. UTIs are common – about 20% of women experience at least one UTI episode and some have recurring episodes. As antibiotics are the most common treatment, this sometimes raises bacterial infection resistance and, at the same time, creates a flora imbalance in the gut which causes more bad bacteria to flourish.
A range of fungi, viruses and bacteria cause UTIs. The most common bacteria associated with UTIs is gut e.coli. Usually, it is passed out through the rectum as waste. But sometimes, due to incorrect wiping, sexual intercourse or too-tight clothing among other factors, this bacteria makes its way from the rectum to the urethral opening. The result is abdominal pressure and burning, burning while urinating, frequent urination, a strong urge to urinate which could lead to incontinence if not satisfied and discoloration of the urine. Upper UTIs are more serious, as they involve the kidneys and you should see a doctor without delay. Signs are lower back pain and blood in the kidneys.
The manufacturer says Vitality Works Cranberry is packed with cranberry antioxidants and flavonoids, as the name suggests. It is designed to support a healthy urinary tract, oral hygiene and also gastric health. The phytochemicals it contains also supports overall wellness.
Ingredients
1 Capsule equals one serving size containing:
- 400 mg Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) extracted in a 4:1 ratio
- Modified vegetable cellulose
- Omega 3 (flaxseed)
- Silica
The 4:1 cranberry extract is equal to 1600 mg raw berries and is the main ingredient while the cellulose and silica are inactive ingredients for the purposes of creating the capsule format. The Omega has many health benefits including boosting immunity, which serves overall as a defense against viral, bacterial and fungal sabotage of the urinary tract.
Studies indicate that taken consistently over the long term, cranberries decrease the number of recurring UTIs. It is important to note that cranberry juice is probably not effective and you must reap the benefit of raw cranberries in extract or fruit form. In order for e.coli to successfully inhabit the urinary tract and cause an infection, it has to stick to other bacteria already there. This latching-on mechanism ensures its survival. The metabolites in cranberries successfully stop e.coli from being able to latch on, thus decreasing the chances of an infection. Of course, as a berry, it is packed with antioxidants that slow down cell aging and improve immunity, vitality, mental function, energy and health in general.
Cranberry also prevents intruders from sticking to the gut lining in general. It has also been shown to support dental health in the same way – by preventing bacteria from sticking to the gums through a similar defense mechanism. By inhibiting oral bugs from sticking to teeth and gums, nasty plaque cannot easily form, thus helping to maintain a healthy mouth. The mouth is the first line of defense against bacteria entering the body.
Dosage
Take 1 to 3 capsules per day, or as otherwise advised by a healthcare practitioner. Before beginning on a cranberry supplement, consult your physician if you are prone to kidney stones or taking warfarin.
What Is The Cost?
You’ll pay $9.95 for 90 capsules on the Cell Nutritionals website (they are the makers). This is a 3 or 1 month’s supply, depending on how much you take. There do not appear to be bulk-buying incentives.
Manufacturer’s Guarantee
Cell Nutritionals has a 60-day returns policy. You may return unused products within 60 days of receipt for a full refund. However, you may only return one opened bottle of Vitality Works Cranberry, while the rest have to be sealed.
Our Final Review Of Vitality Works Cranberry
At 90 capsules in a bottle and given the concentration of cranberry in each capsule, Vitality Works Cranberry represents value for money. The main ingredients, cranberries, has been proven to be an aid in fighting UTIs to some extent.
However, the issue is one of efficacy – studies since 2012 have proven that cranberry metabolites alone usually don’t go far enough in eradicating the bacteria causing UTIs completely. It is not potent enough as a stand-alone ingredient to flush out all the traces of infection and is more effective as a long-term deterrent. This means that in the event of a severe infection, Vitality Works Cranberry will only be of moderate efficacy. Your best bet would be to consider using this along with another supplementary aid such as D-Mannose. However, as there are supplements combining the total-effect power of cranberries, D-Mannose, and lingonberry, you may spend far less and have the convenience of taking fewer capsules long term than by using this product as a supplement.