Benefits of Cranberries

Okay there was a fruit article on MFP but it didn't list cranberries, so I had to look up some info on them cause I eat them almost daily. They are pretty good for you.

from oohoi.com

Benefits of Cranberries

Cranberries are actually a type of acidic berries that are rich in vitamin C and believed to contain excellent infection fighting properties.

A source of pythochemicals known as condensed tannins; these berries are powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory effect. The good news about tannins is the fact that cooking could not destroy it. Although most of us only know that cranberries are good for urinary tract infection, studies have also showed that there are other benefits of this humble fruit. Scientists now believe that this same fruit can help ward off health problems like ulcer and gum problems.


Benefits of Cranberries

Improve the body's circulatory system.
A daily glass of cranberry juice will treat diseases like cystitis.
Provide relief for asthma patients.
Condensed tannins in cranberries can inhibit the oxidation of bad cholesterol and as a result protects body against atheroscelrosis.
Tannins are also considered an important contributor to a healthy heart.
Acts as bactericide and affects the acidity of the urine. In effect, it disrupts the development of kidney stone formation.
The Uses of Cranberries
Asthma Attack
To overcome an asthma attack, cranberries can be used. Crush the berries, boil it in distilled water and skin. This is effective relief from an attack since the berries contain active ingredients similar to drugs prescribed by your doctors to control asthma.
Urinary Tract Infection
As known, the juice has been long known to treat this disease. This is because the juice reduce the number of bacteria adhering to the body's urinary tract lining. A study among elderly patients suggested a 50% reduction of infection among patients who drank 300 ml of cranberry juice everyday for over 6 months. A daily portion of cranberries would also help in treating the disease.
Reduces Cholesterol
Laboratory results have also shown that cranberry extract reduces the oxidation of "bad cholesterol". This helps promote healthy heart.
Prevent Ulcers
New studies have shown the ability of this fruit has the ability to prevent peptic ulcer by inhibiting the adhesion of bacteria to certain parts of the stomach.
Anti-Aging
An exciting new research has shown that cranberries could help protect the brain from neurological damage.

I love cranberries!! They are awesome! I stock up on them when they are around at Christmas time, they freeze well. I cook them in my oatmeal for breakfast and cook them w/ a chopped apple w/ a little vanilla yogurt for a snack.

Thanks for the article! :flowerforyou:

ETA: I'm talking about real, whole cranberries, not the dried kind!

I love both.