Cranberry health benefits

About cranberries

Cranberries are berries coming from an evergreen shrub of the genus Vaccinium, found mostly in the Northern Hemisphere.

Cranberries are an important commercial crop in the United States and Canada. They are mostly sold in form of juice, sauce or as sweetened and dried berries, and the rest is sold as fresh fruit.

Many experts consider cranberries to be a superfruit, because of the rich nutritional content and high levels of antioxidants they provide.

Cranberries are a delicious and very popular fruit, but today more and more people eat them in large amounts because of their health benefits and therapeutic properties.

Health benefits of cranberries

One of the most important properties of cranberries and of cranberry juice as well is their ability to solve the health issues regarding the urinary tract. Cranberries contain proanthocyanidins, which effectively combat the bacteria found in different parts of the urinary tract, causing infections. Urinary tract infections can sometimes be difficult to treat because they are quite persistent, and cranberries provide the solution for those infections, whether they are combined with antibiotics and other forms of treatment, or used alone.

Proanthocyanidins have the similar effect on the bacteria found in mouth and on teeth, as well as on those that affect the gastrointestinal tract.

Cranberries are very rich in antioxidants and as such they are very useful in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and some forms of cancer. These antioxidants prevent the formation of plaque and clots in the blood vessels and are also useful in prevention of ulcers and tumors of the lungs, stomach and the lymphatic system.

These berries also have antiviral properties, especially when it comes to herpes simplex type 2. This is very important since most viruses are very difficult to treat.

Cranberries are an excellent course of vitamin C. Vitamin C is also a powerful antioxidant, it boosts the immune system and helps against different kinds of infections.

In addition, regular intake of cranberries is believed to reverse the effects of aging, both internally and externally, it reduces the chance of developing kidney stones, improves memory and focus and repairs some forms of neurological damage.

In order to enjoy all the amazing health benefits this fruit offers, it is recommended to include cranberries in the daily diet, whether it is in form of fresh fruit, dried berries or juice. When it comes to cranberry juice, it is important to take it in its natural form, without sugar or artificial sweeteners, additives and preservatives.