Bright, plump, juicy cranberries have been famous in Russia as a “natural pharmacy” since ancient times. Modern research has confirmed that this small berry contains a powerful cocktail of protective phytonutrients, beneficial chemicals, and medicinal compounds.
The benefits of cranberries
Nutritional information for fresh or dried cranberries and cranberry juice
Two full cups of cranberries (100 g of berries) contain only 46 calories, of which most are carbohydrates – 12,2 g, 0,4 g for proteins and 0,13 g for unsaturated fats. This dose of berries contains 4,6 g of useful dietary fiber (fiber). If the berries are dried, the same 100 g of calories will increase several times, and more specifically – about 260 kcal, respectively, there will be more fats, proteins, carbohydrates. Natural freshly squeezed juice is not much higher in calories than berries, in a whole glass (220 ml) there are about 90 calories, but, unfortunately, twice less fiber. The composition of dried, frozen, fresh cranberries and cranberry juice necessarily contains the following nutrients, vitamins and minerals:
– calcium; – magnesium; – iron; – phosphorus; – sodium; – potassium; – zinc; – thiamine; – riboflavin; – niacin; – vitamin B6; – vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol); – vitamin K (phylloquinone): – vitamin C (ascorbic acid).
Cranberries also contain phytonutrients, namely five of their key categories: – phenolic acids; – proanthocyanidins; – anthocyanins; – flavanoids; – triterpenoids.
All of these categories of phytonutrients have long been studied as antioxidants with anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties, but not so long ago, scientists have proven that it is their combination that has special, synergistic properties.
Ancient Romans were the first to use cranberries for medicinal purposes.
Health Benefits of Cranberries
The benefits of cranberries in the prevention of various urinary tract inflammations are undeniable. Urinary tract infections occur when some microorganisms in the bladder exceed normal levels. They can develop and cause cystitis, renal parenchyma, bacterial prostatitis. The proanthocyanidins in cranberries prevent bacteria from growing and remove excess bacteria from the body through urination. Research shows that drinking cranberry juice regularly can help prevent recurrent urinary tract infections in middle-aged and pregnant women. Cranberry is useful for patients who have undergone various operations on the genitourinary organs to prevent postoperative diseases. However, it is worth remembering that, contrary to traditional medicine, cranberries do not cure diseases of the urinary tract, but are only a preventive measure.
The presence of polyphenolic compounds in cranberries explains its antitumor activity. Studies have shown that regular consumption of cranberries prevents the development of lung, breast, colon, and prostate cancer.
Regular consumption of cranberries reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. Salicylic acid is able to prevent blood clots and reduce swelling. Flavonoids, reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, a disease of the narrowing of the artery with build-ups of fat, calcium and cholesterol. Atherosclerosis makes it difficult for oxygen-rich blood to reach various parts of the body, which can cause heart attacks and strokes. Flavonoids, on the other hand, delay and suppress lipoprotein oxidation and stimulate the development of platelets in the blood.
The flavonoids found in cranberries are also effective against peptic ulcers. These ulcers are caused by the bacteria Helicobacter Pylori, which attacks the protective layer of the stomach and duodenum. Anthocyanins, flavonols, and proanthocyanidins inhibit the growth of these bacteria, reducing the risk of developing ulcers.
Cranberry is effective in treating colds, tonsillitis, SARS, and inhibits certain strains of influenza that cause respiratory infections in children. It is no coincidence that doctors recommend preparing cranberry juice for colds and flu. Even if it is out of season and you do not have a stock of berries, frozen cranberries are easy to buy at the store. A cinnamon stick added to the fruit drink will make this drink truly healing.
By including cranberries on the menu, you not only strengthen bones and teeth, but also fight the destruction of the latter. Chemical compounds in cranberries prevent harmful bacteria from “clinging” to tooth enamel, they also suppress acid production and protect teeth from periodontal disease.
Useful properties of cranberries
Cranberry juice is good for the skin. Acne, dermatitis, psoriasis and eczema can all be treated with fresh cranberries or juice from them. Also, the bright glossy berry can help lift your mood, reduce stress, anxiety, and suppress depression. Research shows that cranberries are good for the brain and may help improve your memory. The organic acids in cranberries can emulsify body fat, so cranberries are advised to be eaten by those who are trying to lose those extra pounds. Just one to two cups of cranberry juice a day, drunk or after a meal, will help you avoid many health problems, and in some cases have amazing healing effects.
Fresh good cranberries are very easy to separate from rotten ones. Dip the berries in a wide container of water – and good cranberries will float to the surface, and bad ones will lie at the bottom.
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Cranberries contain oxalic acid, which absorbs minerals, calcium and magnesium. By consuming berries regularly, it is worth increasing the daily dose of these nutrients. Also, oxalic acid can lead to the formation of oxalates, therefore, when eating cranberries every day, you should not forget to drink plenty of water, which, with normal diuresis, washes out the crystals that form.
Cranberry juice is contraindicated in people who use blood thinners such as the anticoagulant warfarin or who take large doses of acetylsalicylic acid.