How to Take Cranberry Tablets With Meals

Cranberries are often touted for their use in the prevention of urinary tract infections. While some people may choose to incorporate cranberries in their diet in fresh or juiced forms, others may turn to cranberry extract supplements. Cranberries in any form may increase the risk of bleeding, so people who take prescription blood thinners should not take cranberry tablets without a doctor's authorization. For optimal cranberry extract dosage recommendations, speak with your doctor.

Take cranberry tablets at meals that feature foods rich in specific vitamins and minerals. Certain nutrients in cranberry supplements -- such as vitamin C -- appears to work more effectively when paired with vitamin E and bioflavonoids. Vitamin E can be found in a variety of foods, such as vegetable oils, nuts, seeds and green leafy vegetables. Bioflavonoids -- which are responsible for the bright colors found in some fruits and flowers -- can be found in citrus fruit, onions, berries, parsley and legumes. Taking cranberry extract tablets with the same meals each day can help keep your bloodstream levels stable.

Drink a large glass of water when taking the cranberry extract supplements. Most adults should drink at least half of their body weight in pounds in fluid ounces each day to ensure adequate hydration and promote optimal body function. A 160-pound woman, then, would need to drink at least 80 ounces of liquid each day to meet minimum recommendations.