Most of us come in contact with cranberries through juice or juice blends. Doctors have touted cranberry juice as a good prevention of urinary tract infections (UTIs), connected in part to the berries’ strong acidity. Recent research actually reveals that cranberries contain proanthocyanidins (PACs) which help management of UTIs. These PACs block bacteria that latch onto urinary tract lining. This research has facilitated a deeper understanding of other possible cranberry benefits, especially as it pertains to research regarding the development and prevention of stomach ulcers.
Many studies also reveal that consuming whole cranberries, as opposed to purified cranberry extracts in liquid or dried form, provide better job of protection for the cardiovascular system and liver. The combined effect of cranberry nutrients creates the best assortment of health benefits. This synergy is only found in the whole berry as consumed in food form. These include antioxidant benefits, anti-inflammatory benefits, and anti-cancer benefits.
Growth of cranberries has traditionally been a process of water-harvesting. Basically, cranberries are grown in bogs and floated in water for ease of collection. As it turns out, this form of harvesting increases the amount of natural sunlight to the berries, allowing greater concentrations of healthy phytonutrients called anthocyanins, which contain unique antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Cranberries provide an amazing amount of phytonutrients. Besides anthocyanins, Phytonutrients like phenolic acids, flavonoids , and triterpenoids are abundant. Many of these phytonutrients provide antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. Cranberries are also an abundant source of vitamins C,E, and K, as well as dietary fiber, manganese, copper, and pantothenic acid.
If you avail yourself to the recommended amount of cranberries you experience the following health benefits:
- Protection from urinary tract infections
- Added anti-inflammatory support
- Provides immune support
- Reinforced cardiovascular health
- Antioxidant protection
- Promotion of digestive health
To take full advantage of the cranberry, weekly consumption of berries 3-4 servings is advised. This, to be incorporated in your 5-10 servings of fruits and vegetables recommended by the national Center for Disease Control (CDC).
Read the full article here: The Latest News About Cranberries
