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.