Take Advantage of the Numerous Benefits Offered by Cranberries

All the berries have anti-inflammatory, cancer-preventive and antioxidant properties. Cranberries, these small berries, with a tangy and tart taste, have low calories and are rich in vitamin E, B6, K and C. They also contain calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, zinc, phosphorus and potassium, protein, dietary fiber, triterpenoids, anthocyanins, salicylic acid and flavonoids.

Yes, cranberries could be considered a super food, and you can eat them raw, incorporate them in juices, pies, or at breakfast with your cereals or yogurt.

Eat cranberries and your body will thank you. Here are some of the benefits this amazing fruit has.

• Get rid of Oral Problems

Cranberries can help prevent gingivitis, cavities, gum disease and plaque buildup. According to a study that was published by the Canadian Dental Association Journal, cranberries contain polyphenols that prevent the cariogenic bacteria from creating biofilms on the teeth and gums. They also inhibit the production of organic acids. The vitamin C in cranberries fights infections and gum diseases.

Drink half a glass of cranberry juice each day, without adding any sweetener. This way, you will prevent bacteria from adhering to your teeth.

• Combat Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections are caused by a bacteria called E.coli. Cranberries contain proanthocyanidin, a high-molecular-weight compound with anti-adherence properties that will prevent E.coli from adhering to the uroepithelial cells from the urinary tract. Cranberries can also fight leucorrhea, also known as vaginal discharge.

Drink a glass of cranberry juice daily, with no sweeteners. You can also take cranberry tablets, but you’ll need your doctor’s advice for the optimum dosage.

• Decreased Cancer Risk

A study published in the Journal Anticancer Agents in Medicinal Chemistry stated that cranberries had potent anti-cancer agents and showed positive anti-proliferative effects against breast, liver, prostate, colon, ovarian and oral cancer. Their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiproliferative properties have the power to reduce chronic excessive inflammation and chronic excessive oxidative stress, the two leading causes that increase the risk of cancer. Keep in mind that cranberries help prevent cancer, not treat the disease. Make sure you include raw cranberries or juice in your diet if you are at high risk of cancer.

• Maintains Heart Health

A study published in 2010 in the Journal Nutrition Reviews mentioned cranberries for their high quantity of vitamins, fiber and flavonols that reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The phytochemicals found in cranberries contribute to reducing blood pressure and sustaining cardiovascular health. This fruit also decreases the likelihood of atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes.

• Stronger Bones

The calcium and vitamin K in cranberries strengthen the bones, nails, and teeth and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Vitamin K helps the body retain calcium, preventing bone density loss and reducing the risk of fractures. A glass of fresh cranberry juice or a cup of these raw fruits will keep your bones strong and healthy.

• Slow Down the Aging Process

Vitamins C, B3, and B5, which are excellent antioxidants, combat the effects of aging by helping the body resist the free radicals and environmental factors. The degeneration of skin cells, brain cells, and organ tissue is delayed simply by consuming cranberries regularly.

By including cranberries into your diet, you will prevent diseases that otherwise would need powerful drugs to be treated. Keep your body healthy with this superfood.