Top 10 Health benefits of Cranberries

Cranberries are rich in benefits that are good for your body’s health. The Latin name for the cranberry plant is Vaccinium macrocarpon and is one of the native fruits of North America. Cranberries have an extraordinary antioxidant capacity that is comparable to fruits such as blueberries and strawberries, as well as vegetables such as broccoli and spinach. In this article, we list down top 10 health benefits of Cranberries.

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Top 10 Health benefits of Cranberries

Improves Heart health

The benefits of cranberries on cardiovascular health stem from the combined effects of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory phytonutrients. The antioxidant benefits of cranberries are associated with a reduced risk of various markers of heart disease, including high blood pressure and unhealthy cholesterol levels.

Eating cranberries can improve your cardiovascular health system because the flavonoids in it can reduce fat and lower cholesterol in the body.

Improves Immune Function

According to several studies, cranberry fruit extract can improve many aspects of immune function, and can reduce the frequency of disease. This is due to the high levels of proanthocyanidins compounds in cranberries which can help improve immune function to ward off various diseases.

Has anti-inflammatory effects

Cranberries have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, which could potentially benefit conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, digestive and stomach disorders, and the cardiovascular system, especially the lining of the vessel walls.

Prevent tumours

Cranberries are rich in polyphenolic compounds which are good for preventing tumour growth in the body. By consuming cranberry juice regularly it can stop the growth of tumors that can cause damage to other important organs such as the lungs, breasts, and prostate.

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in cranberries can help in slowing the development of tumours.

Prevents Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections can be very bad for your health. By consuming cranberries you can remove micro-organisms that cause urinary tract infections and also eliminate bacteria that settle in the kidneys or bladder.

When a person experiences the first signs of urinary tract infection, it is advisable to drink a glass of cranberry juice. Cranberry juice has been shown to neutralize bacteria that live in the urinary tract.

Prevents cancer

Research has shown that the cancer-fighting substances found in cranberries may be helpful in preventing several common types of cancer.

Cranberries are a source of the flavonoid quercetin, a natural substance that can inhibit the growth of breast, oral, stomach and prostate cancers.

Better Digestive Health

Recent studies have shown that cranberries can help in optimizing the balance of bacteria throughout the digestive tract, which act similarly to the probiotics found in kefir or yogurt, which can help you achieve better digestive health.

Prevents stomach pain

Eating cranberries is good for fighting bacteria that can cause heartburn or stomach pain.

Protects dental health

Cranberries are able to fight bacteria that cause plaque on the teeth. The proanthocyanidine content in cranberries can protect your teeth from bacteria that cause tooth decay and reduce plaque build-up.

Cranberries can help protect your mouth by preventing bacteria from sticking to the surface of your tongue.

Anti-Aging benefits

Cranberries have a therapeutic effect that protects cells from damage caused by unstable molecules called free radicals, which are responsible for aging. Consuming cranberries regularly can make your skin look healthier and younger.

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Tips for Choosing and Consuming Cranberries

Slice the cranberries and place them on a plate along with your fruit salad.

Besides being consumed directly, processed cranberry juice is also good for body health. But when making cranberry juice do not mix it with sugar.

Blend cranberries with other fruits to make a colourful juice.

Cranberries can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two months before consumption and also frozen for use when needed. Choose cranberries that still look fresh, firm, and not wrinkled. Besides being able to be enjoyed while still fresh, this fruit is also available in the form of dried and canned cranberries.

When it comes to buying dried or canned cranberries, check the ingredient label and make sure the product uses natural cranberries, and does not contain added sugar. Also, if you buy cranberry juice, make sure you pay attention to how it is made, because cranberry juice is sometimes sold mixed with other fruits and sweetened, which makes it less healthy.

Cranberry Fruit Side Effects

If cranberries are consumed in moderation, both cranberry fruit and cranberry juice can be considered safe for most people. However, excessive consumption can cause stomach upset and diarrhea, and can also increase the risk of kidney stones in some individuals.

Cranberries may increase the risk of urinary excretion of oxalate, which can promote the formation of kidney stones. Therefore, for those of you who have a history of kidney stones, it is necessary to consult a health worker or doctor before starting to consume cranberries to avoid these side effects.