by Vilie Farah

Created on: August 30, 2010

Cranberries probably rank among the healthiest foods. Numerous studies confirm that the tiny fruits are packed with useful elements and vitamins, which can play important role in improving and maintaining health.

Cranberries contain powerful antioxidants, which protect cells from damage resulting from the activities of unstable molecules known as free radicals.

The consumption of fruits or cranberry juice provides the body with energy and vitality due to the significant amount of vitamins.

Fresh cranberry juice can prevent urinary infections. Many medications that improve urinary health contain cranberry extracts, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial action. Cranberry juice prevents bacteria from sticking to cell walls, which makes infection less likely.

Cranberry juice is especially helpful in the case of cystitis.

Regular drinking of cranberry juice kills a bacterium known as H. pylori. Scientists have established a connection between H. pylori’s presence and stomach cancer.

Daily intake of cranberries increases the level of good cholesterol and decreases the level of bad cholesterol, which sticks to the lining of blood vessels making the passage of blood more difficult.

A Japanese study, published in Journal of Nutrition shows that cranberries can also diminish the risk of diabetes. Cranberry extract helps control the level of blood sugar, increases insulin sensitivity and decreases weight.

The Japanese study shows that the intake of cranberry extract activates a protein in fatty tissues and muscles. This protein improves the bodily glucose control. Though no diabetes medication containing cranberry extract has been developed yet, scientists believe that the results of the study are promising.

Cranberries can also treat all types of intestinal infections.

The little fruit is also known for its effect in the case of joint pain, cardiovascular diseases and eyesight impairments. Cranberries maintain the flexibility of blood vessels and make them stronger, which in turn improves circulation. The consumption of cranberries prevents the thinning of capillary walls, which can lead to other medical complications.

Studies show that cranberries speed up the regeneration of rhodopsin in the retina. Rhodopsin is responsible for the purple color and night-time vision. Cranberry extracts can help the eye adapt better from daylight to night time.

Cranberries also have the power to strengthen connective tissues and to make skin appear younger. The consumption of cranberries slows down the aging process.

Medics have found no side effects related to the daily intake of fresh cranberries and cranberry juices. Pregnant and nursing women can also eat cranberries or intake cranberry extracts without any health risk.

Sources of information:
National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine
United Press International

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