Benefits of Cranberry: The plant of choice to fight against disorders of the urinary sphere, cranberry has a whole panoply of precious substances such as potassium, and phosphorus but also vitamin C and other antioxidants. Zoom on this superfruit with a sour taste.
Small red berries belonging to the blueberry family, cranberries are cultivated primarily in North America. But, do not confuse them with lingonberries: they are neither the same plant nor the same virtues, even if the two plants seem similar.
Recognized for its beneficial effects on the bladder and in the prevention of cystitis, cranberry contains many other health benefits.
Cranberry or cranberry: a powerful antioxidant
Cranberries contain different types of flavonoids, and powerful antioxidants, which help neutralize free radicals in the body and, thus, prevent the onset of cardiovascular diseases and various diseases related to aging.
This fruit is recommended for athletes because it participates in the fight against free radicals: cranberries, very rich in antioxidants, helps to compensate for the losses of zinc and magnesium due to exertion. The fruit is also rich in potassium.
In addition, research has shown the effectiveness of cranberries in the fight against kidney stones. It would also help to treat or prevent gingivitis or periodontitis.
The antioxidants that are protective agents are vitamins C, E, provitamin A, selenium, and zinc. They fight free radicals, the causes of biological aging.
Antioxidants are found in tissues and are supplied by food (especially cranberry). The cranberry has 9584 ORAC units per 100 g, much more than blueberries (2400), strawberries (1540), or oranges (750).
Cranberries – did you know that?
Of all the common fruits, cranberry is the richest in antioxidants, ahead of grapes, apples, plums, and even blueberries.
In France, it is mainly found in the form of juice, pure or mixed with other fruits, in supermarkets, or in organic stores.
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Benefits of Cranberry Juice: a natural treatment against urinary tract infections
The cranberry is well known for its use and science proves it. Consuming cranberries for a year slows down the consequence of urinary system infections.
According to Finnish researchers, via a study published in the British Medical Journal in 2001, drinking 2 glasses of cranberry juice every day reduced by 50% the risk of recurrence of cystitis in women.
According to the British medical journal Cochrane Review, drinking cranberry juice regularly limits the adhesion of bacteria responsible for urinary tract infections.
These studies and others convinced the French Food Safety Agency (AFSSA), which recommends cranberries for the prevention of urinary problems. For those who often get urinary tract infections, remember to drink water regularly. It is important to drain the urinary tract to prevent bacteria from stagnating there.
The cranberry is in cooking mode
The cranberry can be used in the kitchen in many ways. In the United States, for example, we like to eat them as a snack.
This little berry makes it possible to prepare many sweet recipes: fruit salads, cakes, cookies… On the other hand, the tangy taste of cranberry is excellent in the preparation of sauces, fillings, or even dressings.
