Benefits of Cranberry Juice: 9 Reasons Why You Should Consume Cranberries

The cute, red cranberries are the new quotient of health. Traditionally these berries have been used in making thanksgiving sauces but now dieticians are giving more importance to these tangy fruit balls.

History of cranberries

Cranberries originated in North America. The fruit is widely produced in this region till date. Benefits of cranberries give these the title of superfood. Few interesting facts about cranberries are,
•    Cranberries are generally harvested in the months of September and October.
•    These are generally associated with thanksgiving.
•    These can be refrigerated for 2 months; the good quality cranberries are unwrinkled and firm when touched.
•    Individuals with thin blood should consult a doctor before consuming cranberries.

Benefits of cranberries are immense as these are filled with,
•    Iron
•    Fibre
•    Calcium
•    Cobalamin
•    Magnesium
•    Antioxidants
•    Natural sugar
•    Vitamin A, B, C-6, K and D.
According to a study, cranberries contain just 4 grams of natural sugar, which is even lower than most of the fruits. This fruit comes with a tart flavour.

Cranberry juice benefits

Cranberry juice is a bright, red fruit drink. The key benefits of cranberries are,

1.    Relieves from infections

Cranberry juice is considered by medics as a natural medicine for urinary infections. Cranberry is concentrated with proanthocyanidins (a type of antioxidant). This element prevents bacteria from sticking to the walls of urinary tracts, hence safeguarding the tract from infections. From ancient times cranberries have been used by North Americans to treat kidney and bladder related diseases as the juice is known to flush out kidney stones. The citric acid present in cranberries also prevents the formation of kidney stones.

2.    Improves digestive performance

Cranberry juice benefits also include resolving digestion problems. The fruit is filled with fibre and this element ensures sound gut health. 1 cup cranberry contains almost 4.6 grams of fibre which also ensures proper bowel movements. 

3.    Cuts down fat

The fibre content in cranberries keep the stomach full for long hours; this stops the craving for oily snacks and this is a natural remedy for weight loss. Last but not the least cranberries are low in calories and for this reason, a favourite for dieticians. One important tip to get effective results in weight loss from cranberry juice is to have it sugarless.

4.    Maintaining cardiac health

Cranberry juice can also reduce the amount of bad cholesterol in the body; this refers to LDL and triglycerides. Also, regular consumption of dietary fibre reduces the risks of cardiovascular diseases and improves insulin sensitivity of the body; cranberry juice contains a lot of fibre in it. The anti-inflammatory properties of cranberries also keep the blood pressure under control and preventing platelet buildups. So people prone to strokes, hypertension, obesity and coronary heart diseases can get some benefit by drinking cranberry juice.

5.    Good for dental health

Cranberry juice is good for gum health. The antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory elements and antioxidants present in the juice also eliminate bacteria sticking to the gums and cavities. The calcium content of cranberries strengthens the teeth and prevents plaques. Proanthocyanidins present in cranberry fruit also helps in removing bacteria from the gum.

6.    Strengthens the immunity

Cranberry juice is rich in Vitamin C; it contains more of this vitamin than orange juice. According to research, a cup of cranberry contains 22% of the daily recommended Vitamin C. Whole cranberries or its juice contains NDM (nondialyzable material). This separates the viral infections from the healthy cells, which ultimately safeguards the body from cough and cold. So, this bright red juice is the perfect organic solution to a weak immune system. 

On the other hand, Vitamin E present in the cranberry juice is a soluble fat cum antioxidant. This property of cranberry juice also protects the body from cataracts, Alzheimer’s disease and arthritis. To get best results, daily intake of cranberry juice should be accompanied with proper sleep, regular exercise and healthy food.

7.    Good for Cancer Treatment

The power-packed cranberries are known to slow down the progress of tumour. Cranberry juice is known to have a positive impact on people suffering from liver, prostate, colon, ovarian and breast cancers. Vitamin K, manganese and the phytonutrients present in cranberry juice are natural plant chemicals which come with cancer-preventing properties.

8.    Repairs wounds

The Vitamin C present in cranberries also heals wounds faster. This vitamin type can block the damage caused by free radicals and has the power to absorb more amount of iron from the food. These properties build collagen in the body which repairs the cells.

9.    Good for skin and hair

Cranberry juice benefits the internal organs and skin surface equally. The antioxidants present in cranberries slow down the ageing process, eliminates wrinkles and fine lines. Hydroxylysine, amino acid and hydroxyproline present in the fruit creates collagen; this is important for softer and young skin.

Benefits of dried cranberries

Dried cranberries are available all through the year. As it is important to have fruits every day, this version of cranberries is conveniently portable. Dried cranberries can be added to salads, cereals or may be munched solo as replacement of chips and cookies. To get the best of benefits, one should have 1 ½ or 2 cups of dried cranberries every day. Some benefits of dried cranberries include
•    Low in calories- Dried cranberries contain only 130 calories.
•    Low in fat- Dried cranberries are devoid of fat.
•    Rich in dietary fibre- 1 serving of dried cranberry consists of 3 grams of fibre.

How to have cranberries?

There are multiple ways in which people can have cranberries. These are,
•    Dried cranberries are available in cans; this might contain some amount of sugar.
•    Dried cranberries, unsalted nuts and seeds make a crunchy homemade snack.
•    Dried or fresh cranberries can be tossed into cookie and muffin recipes.
•    Fresh cranberries can be used in apple pie desserts and cobblers.
•    This juice can be easily made at home by using fresh cranberry fruit, cinnamon, apple chunks, water and bit of sugar.

Cranberry fruit benefits are immense. This is a superfood and regular consumption of this fruit can provide relief from multiple health issues as mentioned above.

Note: Please consult a physician before proceeding with a diet.