Health Benefits of Cranberries | High Antioxidant and Nutrient Content

Elevate Christian Network :: Health and Wellness

Cranberries get a lot of press around the holidays, but for the rest of the year, we don’t hear much about them. That is a shame, really, because cranberries are one of the top antioxidant-rich foods, packing in more antioxidants ounce-for-ounce than other “superfoods” like spinach, blueberries, or even green tea.

However, in addition having more phytonutrients than these more familiar berries, cranberries are also even lower in calories and sugar, with a mere 46 calories, 12 grams of carb, and 2 grams of sugar per cup.

Good Reasons to Consume Cranberries Year-Round

Relieve Inflammation. Cranberries  have been shown to have an anti-inflammatory effect, which can potentially benefit conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, stomach and digestive disorders, and our cardiovascular system, particularly the lining of our vessel walls.

Prevent Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). Cranberries have been used for years to prevent UTIs. It appears that their high levels of antioxidants called proanthocyanidins help reduce the adhesion of certain bacteria to urinary tract walls, which in turn can help to reduce the incidence of UTIs.

Cardiovascular Health. Cranberry’s benefit on cardiovascular health is likely due to a combination of factors, including cranberry’s antioxidant effects, anti-inflammatory effects, and potential improvement of HDL and LDL cholesterol. The polyphenols may help prevent the build-up of plaque on vessel walls, and the antioxidant components of cranberries are also linked to a reduction in blood pressure.   Read the full story…. nola.com

 

Benefits of Cranberry Juice: Is It Healthy?

The cranberry is a small but great-tasting fruit that many native American tribes used frequently—not only because of the great taste, but also because it’s rich in antioxidants and helps in hydration.

High in Calcium

First, did you know that cranberry juice is high in calcium? Drinking half of a glass every day will strengthen your bones and teeth. That’s especially important for anyone suffering from brittle or fragile bones.

Polyphenol Compunds

Secondly, cranberry juice has properties that fight both cancer and other tumors. It does this with the polyphenol compounds which have been known to slow the growth of tumors in the breasts, lungs, colon and prostate.

 

Across the web:

Ocean Spray Spending $10 Million to Fund Research on Cranberries The company wants to research the health benefits of cranberries, including their effectiveness against urinary tract infections and antibiotic resistance. Cranberry harvesting requires you to wade into hip-high water. Figuring out the berry’s health …

 

Cranberries Aren’t Just Festive — They’re Good for You Too Dr. Elizabeth Yuko is the Health Editor at SheKnows. She is a bioethicist and writer specializing in sexual and reproductive health and the intersection of bioethics and popular culture. She is an adjunct professor of ethics at Fordham …

 

 

Healthy Recipe: Oat Scones with Cranberries & Orange Yes, the best scone recipes always rely on butter, but oats and whole wheat balance it with other benefits, and cranberries and orange zest make … You should not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or condition.

 

 

Food options that are seasonal, sustainable and uniquely American Most are familiar ingredients you probably have in your kitchen, but being aware of their heritage and health benefits can foster a new level of appreciation and inspiration. Cranberries The cranberry we know and love is a unique species indigenous to …

 

See also: Health & Wellness Channel | Health & Fitness Store on Elevate Christian Network