Image Source – MMS Business Wire

Cranberries are a versatile fruit and their benefits make them useful in food as well as in medicinal products. Cranberries have a tremendous amount of antioxidant capacity as compared to other fruits and vegetables like broccoli, spinach, and apples. One cup of cranberries offers a total 8983 antioxidant capacity. Cranberry juice has long been used for curing various illnesses. Some of the health benefits of cranberries include the following.

1. Urinary tract Infections (UTI)

Urinary tract infections refer to the existence of certain micro-organisms in the urine that exceed normal levels. These infections can develop in the bladder and cause cystitis, in the kidney to cause renal parenchyma, or in the prostate resulting in bacterial prostatitis. Studies have shown that the cranberry juice contains proanthocyanidins that possess anti-clinging properties, which prevent the bacteria from binding itself to the cells on the walls of the bladder. These compounds prevent these bacteria from multiplying and further and flush them out of the body through urination. Research shows that drinking cranberry juice regularly can help prevent recurring UTIs in middle-aged women and pregnant women. Regular intake of cranberry juice has also been proven beneficial for patients undergoing other treatments in the hospitals as a guard against the urinary tract diseases. However, cranberry juice is not effective in treating UTIs once you have the infection, and is only a preventative measure.

Guduchi is known to ward off infections of the body naturally.

2. Cardiovascular Health

Cranberry juice can help lower the risk of heart related ailments and assist in sustaining cardiovascular health. The flavonoids present in cranberries have antioxidant properties and may decrease the threat of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a disease in which the arteries are narrowed due to the build-up of fat, calcium, and cholesterol found in the blood. This obstructs the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the various parts of the body and may lead to potentially fatal outcomes like heart attacks and strokes. These compounds have been shown to delay and suppress the oxidation of low density lipoprotein (LDL) and beneficially stimulate the blood platelets.

Grape Seed Extracts also help to promote a healthy heart.

3. Tooth Decay

According to new research studies, cranberry juice prevents tooth cavities. Proanthocyanidine, a chemical compound present in cranberries, inhibits the harmful bacteria from clinging to the teeth. These components inhibit acid production and protect the teeth from periodontal disease by preventing the growth of plaque. Good oral hygiene, along with the consumption of cranberries, disrupts the pathogenic mechanism of dental caries and generally makes for good dental health. At the same time, one should watch out for the soaring sugar content and the acidity of some commercially available cranberry juices as natural juice is always better.

Neem Powder is used as natural tooth powder to clean to teeth and it  helps in prevention of tooth decay.

4. Respiratory Infections

According to conducted studies, cranberry juice helps to inhibit certain strains of the Haemophilus influenza, which is a common cause of ear and respiratory infections in children. The juice inhibits the bacteria’s hair-like structures, inhibiting them from adhering to the surface of the skin.

Fight the infection and soothe your sore throat with Cranberry Tea.

5. Prevents Cancer

Cranberry contains proanthocyanidins, which inhibit the growth of various cancer cells.  Studies have suggested that diets rich in flavonoids play a fundamental role in reducing the risk of cancer and cancer mortality. Cranberry juice contains anti-carcinogenic components that interfere with the growth of cancer cells, particularly those associated with colon and prostate cancer. According to studies, proanthocyanidins can stop micro-tumors from developing in the blood vessels. Regular consumption of cranberry juice prevents the rapid growth of tumors. Chemicals in cranberries also prevent the multiplication of breast cancer cells.

Pure Pomegranate Juice destroys breast cancer cells while leaving healthy cells alone.

Cranberry fruit extract is used in making various sauces and cranberry juice cocktail. Dried cranberries can be enjoyed with breakfast cereals or can be added to muffins. Enjoy cranberries in any form you like, but in the juice form it is convenient in many ways. Also enjoy the wealth of health benefits you can get from this powerful little berry.