Cranberries have become increasingly popular in recent years. And not surprising, because these small round fruits have many health benefits. Centuries ago, they were used to treat urinary tract infections, as well as wounds and other ailments. In more recent years, the fruit has been shown to have other potential health benefits.
How do cranberries protect against infection?
According to researchers, a specific compound in cranberries called proanthocyanidins (PACs) helps prevent bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract, preventing them from multiplying and causing infection. This 1998 discovery led to further studies suggesting that consuming cranberries regularly helps prevent certain bacterial infections. If infections are prevented, people will not need to take antibiotics, and this could lead to a subsequent reduction in the rate of large-scale development of antibiotic resistance. Resistance has become a critical problem worldwide, resulting in the inability of antibiotics to cure even simple bacterial infections.
What are the benefits of antioxidants?
Since cranberries contain antioxidants, they may also help reduce oxidative stress, an imbalance that causes many chronic diseases, including inflammation, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and cardiovascular disease.
The antioxidants in cranberries help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation and boost immunity, all of which are important not only in preventing urinary tract infections but also improving heart health. Research suggests that these cranberry compounds may reduce the oxidation of LDL (bad) cholesterol, raise HDL (good) cholesterol, increase the flexibility of arteries and reduce inflammation—all major risk factors for heart disease.
How should we consume cranberries to maximize their benefits? About half a cup of sauce or dried berries, a glass of cranberry juice drink (sweetened or unsweetened, with at least 25 percent cranberry) or certain dried supplements will help you get the beneficial effects. Even a cranberry cocktail can give you a health boost as long as you add enough cranberry juice.
