Cranberry – a red gem for good health
AS far as healthy foods go, cranberry is at the top of the list due to its high nutrients, flavonoids and phytonutrients content and is often referred to as a “super food”.
The Latin name for cranberry plant is Vaccinium macrocarpon and it is a native fruit of North America. Cranberry is a versatile fruit and its benefits make it useful in food and medicinal products.
Protection against urinary tract infection ( UTI)
UTIs are considered to be the most common bacterial infection. Women are significantly more likely to experience UTI than men. Nearly one in three women will have had at least one episode of UTI requiring antimicrobial therapy by the age of 24. The common symptoms of UTI are a burning feeling when urinating, a frequent or intense urge to urinate, even though little comes out when you do, cloudy, dark, bloody or strange- smelling urine, and pain or pressure in the back or lower abdomen.
Cranberry has been used to prevent UTIs. While the acidity of cranberry was at one time an important target of research, the latest research showed rather to its proanthocyanidin ( PAC) content that prevents UTIs. The PACs in cranberry have a special structure that makes it more difficult for certain types of bacteria to latch or cling onto the urinary tract linings, especially E. coli – one of the most common microorganisms involved in UTIs.
Anti- ageing benefits
The wealth of phytonutrients and antioxidants present in cranberry play a vital role in skin anti- ageing, such as reducing lines, sagging skin and dullness while improving skin radiance and clarity. They also provide protection against the problems that develop with age, such as memory loss and lack of coordination.
Cardiovascular health
Cardiovascular disease ( heart disease) is the leading cause of death worldwide. Cranberry reduces oxidation of LDLcholesterol ( bad cholesterol), maintains blood vessel suppleness and relieves inflammation, which results in a lower risk of death from cardiovascular or heart disease. The phytonutrients in cranberry also prevent oxidative stress and over- constriction in blood vessels and therefore, prevent high blood pressure.
Immune support
Due to the high content of vitamin C and phytonutrients, cranberry improves the immune system and reduces the incidence of cold and flu. Cranberry compounds may inhibit the adhesion of the influenza virus to the cells, and also make the virus less infectious.
Let’s embark on the journey of experiencing cranberry as an invaluable health tonic.
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