In the United States, the cranberry has long been associated with the holiday
season, and no traditional Thanksgiving feast would be complete without at least
a few cranberry dishes. But did you know this wholesome and puckeringly savory
fruit has many important health benefits too?
Benefit
of cranberry The cranberry is very high in a number nutrients, in particular
many important antioxidant vitamins. Fruits like the cranberry are so much more
effective than packaged vitamin pills because fresh fruits and vegetables, like
cranberries, contain a wide variety of nutrients which are lost in the processing
process, such as phytonutrients which have been shown in many studies to lead
to increased levels of health and fitness.
The cranberry is also thought to play a role in reducing the occurrence of urinary
tract infection. The reason for this is thought to be the proanthocyanidins (PACs)
contained in cranberries. These PACs have been shown to prevent certain types
of bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract.
In
addition to helping to prevent urinary tract infections, PACs are thought to help
prevent gum disease and stomach ulcers, using the same anti-adhesion mechanism.
There
is also growing evidence that the phytonutrients and antioxidants contained in
the cranberry and in fresh cranberry juice may be good preventative measures against
cancer and heart disease.
Fresh cranberries are available in major grocery stores and supermarkets often
throughout the year. Cranberry juice is readily available as well, though the
best juice comes from organic cranberries.
Cranberry
sauce is the gelled processed form of cranberries. Nearly all of its nutrients
are lost, so if you're looking for any health benefit, stick to fresh cranberries
and fresh cranberry juice.
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Disclaimer:
Throughout this website, statements are made pertaining to the properties and/or
functions of food and/or nutritional products. These statements have not been
evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and these materials and products
are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.