Let’s talk about cranberries

As we prepare for winter, let’s learn about the berry that can help you build immunity with its rich source of vitamins and antioxidant content

Anjali Shetty

The changing weather needs food that will help keep your body healthy and your vitals stable. One such must-have food to include in your diet is cranberry. Composed of carbohydrates and fibre, the berry is a rich source of Vitamin C, K and E. Siddhant Bhargava, fitness and nutritional scientist, says, “The health benefits of cranberries are majorly because of its high antioxidant content. Cranberries are extremely rich in Vitamin C and have an antioxidant capacity (ability to prevent oxidation of cells) of around 9,000. They are also rich in fibre and have a low glycemic load.”

He adds that they majorly benefit in reducing inflammation within the body, which in turn helps reduce oxidative stress and ageing. Cranberries also prevent premature death, destruction, and ageing of all cells within the body. It has its benefits in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, high cholesterol, metabolic syndrome, and increased immunity.

Amita Salvi, a dietician, says, “Cranberries are a rich source of several vitamins. Vitamin C is the predominant antioxidant, which is essential for the maintenance of your skin, muscles and bones. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that plays a role in immunity. Cranberries are a low GI fruit, and so, people suffering from diabetes can have them.”

Dr Deepti Bagree, head of department, healthcare division, Reset Holistic Living Concepts, says, “There are different varieties available in the market that are excellent free radical scavengers. Free radicals are known to damage the cells leading to inflammation.”

Bagree shares, “Cranberries contain proanthocyanidins which have antioxidant properties hence drinking unsweetened cranberry juice helps ward off urinary tract infection. Another active ingredient is D-Mannose, which helps prevent harmful bacteria from sticking to the tract, reducing chances of infection.”

Along with antioxidants these berries have gut friendly fibres that feed good gut bacteria and help them out number bad ones, maintaining overall digestive health.

They inflammation and hence are a great option for those who have chronic or acute inflammation.

Being low in calories, they make for excellent food for those on hypocaloric diets.

Cranberries are among the most favourite anti-aging foods due to their vitamin C content that helps in collagen synthesis. It also tightens the skin thus preventing free radical damage.