Ten Reasons Why We’re Crazy for
Cranberries
1. Flavour- Cranberries are a delicious ingredient for cookies, muffins, chutneys, salads and of course sauces. Cranberry sauce is a traditional side when serving turkey, so ‘tis the season!
2. Versatility – Cranberries can be eaten cooked or dried, and when juiced, you can drink them.
3. Nutrition – Cranberries are high in nutrients, but low in calories and sodium. One cup of cranberries is only equal to about 50 calories.
4. Prevention of dental plaque and gum disease – Cranberries have been shown to prevent the adhesion of certain bacteria to teeth, thereby preventing gum disease.
5. Prevention of Urinary Tract Infections – Cranberries contain proanthocyanidins (PAC)’s which inhibit the adhesion of bacteria, including E.coli, to the urinary tract. Consequently they can inhibit infection. Just 2 servings of cranberry juice daily can offer protection for almost the whole day.
6. Heart Health – Whole cranberries are a good source of dietary fibre, and all cranberry products contain flavonoids and polyphenolics which offer many potential heart benefits.
7. Prevention of Stomach Ulcers – Just like in the urinary tract, cranberries can prevent adhesion of bacteria to the lining of the stomach and therefore help reduce stomach ulcers. They can be just as effective as probiotics for good digestive health.
8. Prevention of Cancer – Research has shown that compounds in cranberries may prove to be cancer fighters as they prevented tumour growth in breast tissue.
9. Whole Body Health – Cranberries contain antioxidants which are good for the whole body!
10. Decoration – Cranberries are very decorative, especially during the Christmas season. See our blog post on Cranberry Crafts.
References:
Howell A. Cranberry Proanthocyanidins and the Maintenance of Urinary Tract
Health. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2002; 42(S): 273-278.
Gupta K, Chou M, Howell A, Wobbe C, Grady R, Stapleton A. Cranberry
products inhibit adherence of p-fimbriated Escherichia coli to primary cultured
bladder and vaginal epithelial cells. J Urol 2007; 177(6): 2357-2360.
Bodel PI, Cotrain R, Kass EH. Cranberry juice and the antibacterial action of
hippuric acid. Journal of Laboratory and Clinical Medicine 1959; 54: 881-888.
studies. J Nutr 2007; 137(1S): 186S-193S.