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What do we know about cranberries?
Cranberry provides us with a large amount of dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamins B1 and B2, calcium, phosphorus, copper, iodine, tannins, as well as citric and malic acid. In each article on the properties of cranberries, we will find information that it prevents cystitis, strengthens immunity, allows you to recover faster and gain energy. Is it a proven action, or is it just a belief that is more to calm our conscience than heal?
Cranberry and cystitis
Epidemiological studies show that millions of people suffer from recurrent bladder infection (UTI). Cranberry is a traditional way of treating and preventing this unpleasant ailment. In 1994, a study of 153 women was conducted, in which it was proved that cranberry prevents urinary tract infections by up to 50 percent. The protective effect of cranberry juice was to result from an increase in urine acidity, an increase in the content of antimicrobial hypuronic acid in it, and the presence of ingredients that prevent the adherence of Esherichia coli (E. coli) to the walls of the urinary tract.
Since then, research into the effectiveness of cranberries in preventing UTIs has multiplied, and the results have actually varied. This year’s retrospective study shows that the efficacy-to-safety ratio of cranberry in the prevention of UTI may be highly justified in the case of young and middle-aged women. However, evidence of its clinical application in other patients remains controversial. An analysis of subsequent studies suggests that cranberry juice is not as effective as previously indicated, its properties may be too low for people with recurrent UTI.
Cranberries may prevent bladder infection, but rather in young and middle-aged women.
Cranberry and immunity
Several studies have shown the effects of cranberry on the immune response:
- in rabbit studies, cranberry reduced the risk of infection causing oxidative kidney damage,
- consumption of the cranberry drink by the group of respondents reduced the amount of the pathogen in 42 percent. people without changing the beneficial microflora,
- lower levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the urine of pregnant women were reported after drinking cranberry juice for at least 3 days,
- in mice studies, cranberry has been shown to increase the production of antibodies to lymphoma.
Research published in the Nutrition Journal confirmed that cranberries will protect us from disease. The subjects who drank cranberry juice every day showed a reduced number of symptoms of the disease and more favorable health outcomes compared to the control group.
Cranberry has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which protects against diseases.
Cranberry and cancer
Current reports confirm the anti-cancer properties of both the whole cranberry fruit and its individual components. The probable mechanisms of action of cranberry on cancer are induction of apoptosis of neoplastic cells, i.e. their self-destruction and delaying invasion and metastasis of neoplasms. The beneficial effect of cranberry on the inhibition of the growth of neoplasms, such as lung, prostate and ovary, has been proven.
Cranberry and the metabolic syndrome
Cranberry juice selectively reduces LDL cholesterol oxidation and inflammation in the metabolic syndrome. Moreover, regular consumption of cranberries lowers bad cholesterol and increases good cholesterol. It has also been proven that while cranberry does not actually prevent a heart attack, it can reduce its size and health consequences.
Healthy Cranberry: Fact or Myth?
Absolutely a fact. In truth, when it comes to cystitis, cranberries may not work as effectively as previously thought, but it will definitely help a large group of people. Also its other properties, such as anti-cancer properties, should encourage frequent consumption of cranberry fruit. If you do not have an idea for dishes with cranberry, the article by dietitian Łukasz Wiertel on the health properties and use of this fruit will help you.
The title photo is from: panafotkas / Foter / CC BY-SA
Photo from text is from: tsuacctnt / Foter / CC BY