Cranberries Can Reduce Your Risk Of Cancer And Heart Disease
by Terry Lowery
When is the last time you ate cranberries? Was it with a turkey
dinner? With all the research pointing to the amazing health benefits
of this simple berry, shouldn't cranberries be more than a once
a year side dish?
How Cranberries Are Proving Their Strength:
The Cranberry Institute provides the results of studies and
research that highlight the fantastic health benefits of the humble
cranberry.
Cranberries have been used for thousands of years by Native
Americans as a source of food and to extend the shelf life of
dried meats. Colonial sailors also made use of the natural preservatives
in cranberries (from benzoic acid) which allowed them to last
through long sea voyages, and the high Vitamin C content which
prevented scurvy.
Perhaps they were on to something since new research suggests
that cranberries may prevent the adhesion of the e.coli bacteria
- a common cause of food poisoning from contaminated meat - to
the urinary tract. This 'anti-adhesion' effect may also help in
preventing bacteria from causing stomach ulcers and gum disease.
Vitamin C is also a known powerful antioxidant and is being
widely accepted as a means of combating the effects of free radicals
in the body which can cause cancer, heart disease and other health
problems. Antioxidants from cranberries are being researched for
prevention of kidney stones and lowering cholesterol.
While many fruits contain antioxidants, according to research
cranberries have more antioxidants than 19 commonly eaten fruits.
With this news it makes sense to include cranberries into a balanced
diet throughout the year.
How Can You Include Cranberries Into Your Diet?
Fresh, frozen or dried, cranberries can be eaten anytime of
the year.
Adding dried cranberries to baking (such as scones, breads
and cookies) is an easy way to enjoy their tart sweetness. Adding
frozen cranberries to smoothies or soups can lend a mild tang
to your creations. Fresh cranberries make excellent garnishes
and dressings.
The easiest way to add cranberries to your diet is to drink
cranberry juice. While sweetened juices have less antioxidants
than unsweetened, the benefits of adding cranberry to your diet
are still there. If you add unsweetened juice to sparkling water
you can enjoy a refreshing spritzer.
While studies are still being conducted on the health benefits
of cranberries there is no doubt that increasing the intake of
fruits and vegetables in your diet will lead to a healthier body.
Choosing to use a variety of berries, citrus and other fruits
will ensure you are giving your body everything it needs for optimum
health.
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