Does Cranberry juice help with cramps? (Updated 2024)

Cranberries have been known to prove beneficial to women of all ages.

You may have gotten advice from your grandmother about this sour fruit that had been acting as a solution to relieve the menstrual woes or the menstrual cramps.

So, does cranberry juice help with cramps?

Cranberry juice offers great relief from premenstrual symptoms, including bloatedness, mood swings, and stress.

It will reduce your chances of getting muscle spasms, especially in athletes.

In this post today, you will be exploring the miraculous effect of this fruit and how it fights menstrual cramps, along with the other health benefits and a few other natural remedies for relieving muscle cramps!

 

Does Cranberry juice help with cramps? 

Cranberries and cranberry juice have long been used as means of supplements for relieving menstruation discomforts.

Several women claim that cranberries can offer relief from PMS, mentioning that cranberry juice can aid with bloating, cramping as well as fluid retention.

But, there is never a size fit. A few of them might be finding relief, while others might not be finding it effective.

There is science backing the claim.

A few research studies have shown that cranberry juices can help reduce inflammation, scavenge free radicals, and prevent UTIs along with the balance of the mineral content in the body like magnesium and potassium.

 

Adequate Balance of Magnesium, Calcium, and potassium 

Potassium is the main content of cranberries that helps the body retain less water and reduce bloating related to PMS.

It also helps prevent muscle cramps with its effects on maintaining the efficient contraction of muscles.

Manganese is the other vitamin present in cranberry juices to help women avoid the symptoms of PMS.

Studies show that magnesium levels in women with PMS are less than the ones without this condition.

Therefore, professionals have also claimed the efficiency of magnesium supplementation for preventing PMS and treatment strategies.

Manganese also effectively eases a few of the exhaustion that women with periods experience.

According to an analysis of magnesium’s effect on PMS, you’ll need to eat cranberries for two months to notice a difference.

However, to improve the findings, more well-designed clinical trials are required.

 

Reduces Inflammation

Quercetin is an ingredient present in cranberry juice, and it works as an anti-inflammatory lowering the levels of prostaglandin in the body.

The main role of prostaglandins is to reduce the pain and cramps during periods.

Studies discovered that improper balance between magnesium and calcium leads to inflammation and lowers magnesium, contributing to cramps.

PMS can be alleviated with a diet rich in cranberry juice.

 

Rich in Antioxidant properties 

Mood swings, despair, anxiety attacks, and tension are all possible symptoms of PMS.

Cranberries and cranberry juice, which are high in Vitamin C and some other minerals, can help you relax. This drink is high in antioxidants, which assist in protecting cells from free radical damage.

 

Prevents UTI 

The symptoms of discomfort during a menstrual cycle in women, along with urinary tract infection, become a dreadful combination. It causes serious muscle cramps.

Cranberry juice has rich nutrient content preventing bacteria that cause kidney and bladder infections.

It inhibits E.coli, which is a common bacteria causing urinary tract infections.

 

Generates effective muscle contractions 

Potassium is required for nerve transmission and muscle contraction.

Potassium deficiency can result in a variety of symptoms, ranging from simple muscular cramps to irregular heartbeat.

Cranberries are high in potassium, which is beneficial to women who have cramps throughout their menstrual period and cyclists who may be at risk of potassium deficiency.

 

Effective Influence on Menstruation 

The existence of vitamin K in cranberry fruit juice involves several benefits in regulating women’s menstrual cycles.

It influences the production of estrogen, preventing excessive bleeding but studies are inconclusive.

 

Read– Does Nutritional Yeast Go Bad?

 

Other Health Benefits 

Cranberries include antioxidants such as vitamin C, flavonoids, carotenoids, and anthocyanins, to name a few.

Even though some antioxidants are destroyed during the juicing process, cranberry juice still retains a large quantity of these compounds.

One cup (240 mL) contains well over 78 percent of the Recommended Daily Intake (DV) for vitamin C.

Thus, the best approach to gain the health advantages of cranberry juice is to drink it fresh.

 

Supports Gut Health 

A-type proanthocyanidins present in cranberry juice can suppress Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a bacterium that causes stomach ulcers.

The antioxidant properties of cranberries may help to prevent colon cancer.

 

Prevents Breast Cancer 

It is claimed that women consuming higher amounts of vitamin C are less likely to be developing a few specific kinds of cancer, including breast cancer.

 

Provides Antioxidants 

The antioxidant properties in cranberries can help minimize the risk of developing various diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and vascular conditions.

 

Supporting Cardiovascular Health 

Vitamin C content in cranberries can help reduce the lower density of lipoprotein or the “bad” cholesterol that slows down the damage to the heart’s blood vessels.

 

Read– Oregano oil For Cold Sore

 

What Causes Cramps? 

Muscle cramps may be excruciating if you’ve ever been woken in the dead of night or interrupted by a sudden tightening of the legs.

A muscle cramp is an unintentional constriction of one or so more muscles that occurs suddenly. There is a massive majority of cases, and the reason is unknown.

Muscle cramps are more likely as you get older, when you’re exhausted, during pregnancy, or if you have medical issues like diabetes or nerve, liver, or thyroid disorders.

Leg cramps, especially in the calf, are the most frequent muscle cramps in males.

They can be induced by using a muscle, dehydration, muscular tension, or simply being in one posture for too long.

During the menstrual cycle in women, muscle cramps are common.

Cramps in the lower abdomen are caused by dysmenorrhea that happens before or throughout the period.

The contractions of the uterine muscles are triggered by the molecules known as prostaglandins implicated in pain as well as inflammations.

 

When to see a doctor? 

If you face the below-mentioned condition you must consult with a doctor

Blood deficit 

Atherosclerosis of the extremities, or the blockage of the coronary arteries that give blood to your legs, can result in cramps if your blood flow is insufficient.

 

Compression of the nerves 

When the nerves in your spine get impinged, a cramp-like discomfort travels down your legs. Walking aggravates this sort of muscular soreness.

 

Deficiency in minerals 

Leg cramps can be caused by a diet that is deficient in sodium, calcium, or magnesium. These minerals can also be depleted by drugs which are often used to control blood pressure.

Endometriosis, uterine fibroids, and adenomyosis are all conditions that can affect women.

These are gynecologic disorders that produce severe menstrual cramps in women.

 

Inflammation of the pelvis 

Lower abdomen discomfort can be caused by the bacterium of the female reproductive organs. This discomfort is sometimes misdiagnosed as a UTI or a regular menstrual cramp.

 

Read– Essential Oil For Sinus

 

Natural Ways to Relieve Cramps 

Muscle Cramps 

Avoid dehydration—fluids help muscles contract and relax while also keeping muscle cells hydrated. Replace fluids on a frequent basis while your activity, and when you’ve finished exercising, continue drinking water or other fluids.

If you get leg cramps at night, stretch before going to bed. Light activity before night, such as cycling a recumbent bike for a few minutes, could also help you sleep better by reducing cramps.

 

Menstrual Cramps 

Selecting lighter, nutrient-rich foods is considered one of the main components of advice for surviving period pains.

Always ensure that you are eating them regularly apart from eating the right type of foods to avoid menstrual cramps.

Do not skip meals since feeling hungry will worsen the cramps.

Also, drink sufficient water since dehydration can worsen the muscle spasms that result in extremely serious cramping.

Respect your body throughout your Menstruation. Whenever you shouldn’t have to be active, get as enough rest as you can and be as comfortable as possible.

The National Institute of Health also recommends exercise because it can help reduce stress, which has been related to increasing menstruation symptoms such as cramps.

A hot bath, a heating pad on the abdomen, or stroking the abdominal wall could also be beneficial.

If self-care doesn’t work, a steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) can often help you feel better.

 

Read– Are Beets Good For Diabetes?

 

How Much Cranberry Juice should you drink? 

Even when things are going well, everything must be done in moderation.

The same may be said for cranberry juice. According to studies, daily dosages of 120-750 mL over up to 90 days are necessary to get optimal health advantages.

However, take the advice from a physician to see what dosage is right for you.

Because cranberry juice is acidic on its own, store-bought mixes sometimes combine it with other fruits or add a sufficient amount of sugar to make it taste better.

Avoid any cranberry juice blends that include less than guaranteed juice.

The healthiest choice is to drink pure, unsweetened cranberry juice.

Certain drugs, such as blood thinners, atorvastatin, nifedipine, pharmaceuticals metabolized down by the liver, and diclofenac, may be affected. If you’re taking any additional drugs for maintenance, consult a doctor.

 

Risks & Side Effects of Cranberry 

Side effects 

Cranberry juice, cranberries, and cranberry extracts are extremely safe.

There are a few amounts causing stomach upset and even diarrhea.

Pregnant women may be suffering from adverse effects even in low doses.

 

Risks 

Don’t rely on cranberries if you suspect you have just a urinary tract infection.

There isn’t any proof that it will assist. Consult a physician instead.

Before taking cranberries for a health concern, see your doctor if you have any allergies to aspirin or kidney stones.

Sweetened cranberry beverages can be heavy in calories plus high-fructose corn syrup, making them unsuitable for persons who have diabetes or are overweight.

 

Interactions 

Always make sure that you are consuming the medications daily, and speak to your doctor before starting to consume cranberry supplements.

They can even interact with medicines like blood thinners, a few antibiotics, statins, antacids, and proton pump inhibitors, along with the drugs affecting the liver.

 

Read– Himalayan salt Bath Benefits

 

FAQs 

Below we share some FAQs related to the Query “does cranberry juice help with cramps”

1. What juice is good for cramps?

The mix of basil, carrot, lemon, and peaches appears to be unusual.

This is a drink that will improve your health and help you get rid of menstruation cramps.

During Menstruation, carrots can help with excessive or irregular blood flow.

This would, of course, alleviate the cramping.

 

2. Is cranberry juice capable of causing stomach cramps?

Most people should be OK with cranberry juice and extracts.

Some people may get moderate stomach distress and diarrhea as a result of drinking far too much cranberry juice.

 

3. Can you get wind from cranberry juice?

Cranberry juice in normal serving quantities is safe and healthful, but too much of it can induce unpleasant side effects such as stomach trouble as well as diarrhea. Blood sugar levels rise.

 

4. Can cranberry juice make you feel bloated?

Cranberry juice in moderation has no known side effects, but excessive use may cause constipation.

 

5. How healthy is cranberry juice for your stomach?

Cranberry juice works as an antioxidant, notably A-type proanthocyanidins, which can help inhibit the formation of Helicobacter pylori, which is the scientific term for the bacterium that causes stomach ulcers. Cranberry juice may aid in the reduction of bacterial infections.

 

6. Is there anything you shouldn’t consume during your period?

Caffeine-rich beverages like tea or coffee can raise levels of estrogen, which can exacerbate PMS symptoms. While you’re on your period, save yourself the hassle and avoid caffeine-rich foods and beverages.

 

7. How do you get rid of menstruation cramps?

Your uterus contracts throughout your menstrual cycle to assist the shed of its lining.

The contractions in the uterine muscle are triggered by hormone-like molecules (prostaglandins), which are implicated in pain and inflammation.

More severe menstrual cramps are linked to higher levels of prostaglandins.

 

8. When should cranberry juice be consumed?

Before going to bed, cranberry juice is unquestionably a good idea.

Because cranberry juice is indeed the richest source of melatonin, it can help you sleep better and longer. Additionally, you might consume cranberry juice for breakfast to increase your daily vitamin C and antioxidant consumption.

 

9. Does cranberry juice cause bladder irritation?

Cranberries, like tomatoes & citrus fruits, can upset your bladder and induce urge incontinence.

Although you may be tempted to start cranberry juice for comfort, it may aggravate your symptoms.

 

10. How does cranberry juice help with bloating and gas?

According to Eat This, Not That! Cranberry juice is good for cleansing away your stomach because that’s a natural diuretic.

However, make sure you obtain the all-natural cranberry juice and not the sugar-laden cranberry cocktail because it won’t be half as beneficial.

 

Read– Does Iodine Kill Fungus?

 

Summary 

• So, does cranberry juice help with cramps? Muscle or menstrual cramps can be disabling as well as irritating.
• Luckily, consuming cranberry juice and adhering to some other home remedies can help relieve the pain.
• In many cases, the main aspect is moderation. Cranberry juice is considered acidic; therefore, always keep an eye on the amount you should be consuming.
• Children, pregnant women, or breastfeeding should not consume cranberry for medical reasons unless a professional recommends it while cranberry juice is quite safe.

 

Read– Echinacea Benefits For Skin