The Uses of Cranberry Fruit Extract

H. Pylori Infection
H. Pylori is a bacteria that lives in the stomach; sometimes it lives there without causing problems. Other times, people end up developing ulcers because of it, among other stomach issues. The Mayo Clinic explains that early research shows that cranberry might aid in the reduction of the Helicobacter pylori bacteria that live in the stomach, thereby decreasing the chance for ulcers. The use of cranberry fruit extract for this condition also receives a grade of "good" from MayoClinic.com.
Other Uses
MayoClinic.com gives the following uses for cranberry fruit extract a grade of "unclear" as far as evidential proof is concerned; research is being conducted and the extract is being used, however, as a potential treatment: cranberry extract may be used as an antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal. Based on research, cranberry has been recommended as being an option to prevent cancer. There is a possibility that cranberry fruit extract might contribute to preventing the formation of kidney stones. Also, cranberry may not be able to work alone to treat urinary tract infections, but in conjunction with other treatment like antibiotics, it may be helpful.
Role of Silymarin in Diabetes
Improved Liver function leads to improved Diabetes Control
The liver is the first and most important tissue involved with insulin utilization. In secondary diabetes due to liver damage, insulin resistance in particularly pronounced. The reduction in lipid per oxidation produced by silymarin can lead to improved metabolic control and a reduced requirement for endogenous insulin in such patients, as demonstrated by this investigation conducted in Italy.
METHODS
A homogeneous group of 60 patients with diabetes caused by liver cirrhosis who were being traded with insulin were randomly assigned to receive silymarin 600 mg/day or no silymarin for 6 months; all were receiving insulin therapy and had elevated endogenous insulin secretion suggestive on insulin resistance. Additional criteria for inclusion were; age between 45 and 70 year; insulin therapy stable for at least 2 years; negative markers for hepatitis A, B and C; alcohol abstinence for at least 2 years; liver cirrhosis determined on biopsy no earlier than 4 years previously; and class 2 according to the Child classification of cirrhosis. Ranges of measurements were conducted to assess metabolic control, serum lipid levels and liver function throughout the treatment period.