Cranberries are small, hard, round, red fruits with a flavor that many describe as both bitter and sour.They are very acidic in taste with a pH ranging from 2.3 to 2.5. Cranberries scientifically known as (Vaccinium Macrocarpon) are loaded with vitamin C and fiber, rich in phyto-nutrients which are essential for all-round wellness.
Cranberries also contain various chemical substances that may offer protection from tooth cavities, urinary tract infection, and inflammatory diseases.
There are a bunch of other health benefits of eating cranberries. Here’s a list of them below:
1. Powerhouse of antioxidants
Did you know that cranberries succeed almost all fruits and vegetables in disease-fighting antioxidants, including strawberries, raspberries, spinach, broccoli and cherries? One cup of cranberries in fact has a total of 8,983 antioxidant capacity.
2. Prevents UTIs
Cranberry is perhaps best known for its role in preventing UTIs. The high level of proanthocyanidins in cranberries helps lower the adhesion of certain bacteria to the urinary-tract walls, in turn fighting off infections. According to a study, cranberry helps prevent UTIs. However, cranberry juice is far less effective since it takes an extremely large concentration of cranberry to prevent bacterial adhesion.
3. Boosts brain power
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds present in cranberries may improve memory and coordination according to study. So if you wish to stay brilliant, you might want to snack on dried cranberries daily.
4. Prevents cancer
Research has shown that cranberries are beneficial in slowing tumor progression and have shown positive effects against prostate, liver, breast, ovarian and colon cancers.
5. Helps with weight loss
Cranberry juice has an emulsifying effect on the fats deposited in the body which in turn help with weight loss. Since it is loaded with fiber, it also helps one stay full for longer.
6. Combats tooth decay
According to researchers the proanthocyanidins present in cranberries may benefit oral health by preventing gum disease and bacteria from binding to the teeth.
7. Nourishes skin
According to researchers, cranberries help nourish the skin and make it more supple. You can blend quarter cup of honey with two tablespoons of dried cranberries and quarter tablespoon of essential oil and apply it to your skin for 10 minutes for improved results.
8. Boosts immunity
Since cranberries are rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals, they promote a healthy immune system and reduce the odds of you getting sick.
9. Heart healthy
According to a study, people who drink a glass of unsweetened cranberry juice a day have increased levels of HDL cholesterol i.e. good cholesterol by about 10%. The polyphenols present in cranberries may also reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by preventing platelet build-up and reducing blood pressure.
