common questions
What is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)?
A UTI is typically characterised by the sudden onset of frequent, painful and urgent urination, lower abdominal pain or lower back pain may also be present.
What causes UTI?
The most common cause of UTIs are bacteria from the bowel that live on the skin near the rectum or in the vagina, which can spread and enter the urinary tract through the urethra. Once these bacteria enter the urethra, they travel upward, causing infection in the bladder and sometimes other parts of the urinary tract.
For more information see Urinary Tract Infections
How is a UTI diagnosed?
Usually your doctor with prescribe a short course of antibiotics however, some cases of UTI may resolve without medication.
When should you consult your doctor?
You should see your doctor if you have frequent UTI's blood in your urine, fever, vomiting, pain or UTI symptoms continue after treatment.
How do Cranberries help to prevent UTI's
Research indicates that cranberries contain 'condensed tannins' and 'proanthocyanidins' which prevent the E.Coli bacteria (the primary cause of UTI's) adhering to the walls of the urinary tract.
Can ellactiva cranberry chews help prevent UTI's?
Unfortunately, there aren't any guarantees that preventive measures, including taking cranberry extracts, will stop you from developing UTI's. However, clinical studies, have demonstrated a daily dose (500mg) of Cranmax significantly reduces UTI occurrence; is as effective as antibiotics to reduce UTI recurrence. Studies also show that Cranmax is more effective than a common cranberry extract containing 36mg of PAC and is as effective as drinking 3 glasses of Cranberry juice per day.
What is cranmax and why have you used it?
Cranmax is an innovative ingredient with a strong and well-defined regulatory background. It is made from 100% cranberry fruit solids, infused at a ration of 34:1 which means that 34Kg of fresh Cranberries are used to produce 1Kg of Cranmax. There are no added sugars, preservatives or flavourings.
What is the difference between drinking cranberry juice and taking ellactiva Cranberry?
Although several clinical studies have found cranberry juice to be beneficial in preventing UTI's, the amount that needs to be consumed is considerable.
Cranmax is more potent than cranberry juice as it contains the whole cranberry - fruit, juice, seeds and skin. Most juices contain 27 - 33% cranberry juice with the remainder consisting of water and sugar. Drinking cranberry juice for the health of your bladder can be expensive and increase your calorie intake.
How many ellactiva cranberry chews should I take each day and when should I take them?
Each ellactiva cranberry chew contains 250mg of Cranmax, whilst there is no RDA for cranberry extract, as it is not an essential nutrient.
Are there any adverse effects to taking too many ellactiva cranberry chews?
No negative side effects have been reported from the use of cranberry or Cranmax.
I love ellactiva cranberry and I take it regularly, should I worry about my waistline?
The good news is that each ellactiva cranberry chew contains only 16 calories. Compared to cranberry juice, ellactiva cranberry is a much lower calorie way to get your recommended daily intake.
Are there any medications or supplements that could be affected by my use of Ellactiva cranberry?
People who suffer from kidney stones, should check with a doctor before taking cranberry supplements. In addition, people who take blood thinners like warfarin or coumadin should consult with their doctor before taking cranberry supplements. This is also true if they regularly take aspirin or liver medications.
I am vegetarian, should I still take Ellactiva cranberry?
Yes, Ellactiva Cranberry contain no animal products and are therefore suitable for vegetarians
Where can I find Ellactiva cranberry?
Some branches of Nutri Centre will stock Ellactiva Cranberry and directly via this website. For future information on stockists, please sign up for email updates.
What else can be done to prevent UTI?
Women and girls should wipe from front to back (not back to front) after going to the bathroom. Empty your bladder regularly and completely. Drink plenty of fluids.
