The 12 Benefits of Cranberry for Heart and Health
Cranberry is a versatile fruit and its advantages make it a useful food as well as medicinal products. The Latin name for cranberry plant is Vaccinium macrocarpon and it is one of the fruits native to North America as we mentioned above. Cranberry contains powerful antioxidants compared to other fruits and vegetables like Broccoli , Spinach and Apple .
Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, Vitamin C and salicylic acid. Containing only 45 calories per cup, cranberries fit very well within dietary guidelines. In addition, Cranberry Juice also contains 87.13 g of water per 100 g. It also provides energy, protein and carbohydrates. In terms of minerals, it contains Calcium , Magnesium , Iron , Phosphorus , Sodium, Potassium and Zinc .
Nutritional Value of Cranberry Juice
- One cup of cranberries has 8983 antioxidant potency.
- Contains anthocyanin, flavonoids, sianidin, peonidin, quercetin, tannins and 87.13 grams of water per 100 grams. It is a good source of salicylic acid and Vitamin C.
- And it nourishes the body with carbohydrates, proteins, minerals like Calcium , Phosphorus , Iron , Sodium , Magnesium , Potassium , Zinc , and vitamins like Niacin , Riboflavin , Vitamin B6 , Vitamin E and Vitamin K.
It also contains vitamins such as Thiamine , Riboflavin , Niacin , Vitamin B6 , E (alpha tocopherol) and Vitamin K (phylloquinone). Cranberries are members of the Ericaceae family . In addition, cranberry juice has long been used for curing various ailments. So, check out The 12 Benefits of Cranberry for Heart and Health.
Cranberry Benefits for Cardiovascular Health: Cranberry juice can help lower the risk of heart-related diseases and help in maintaining cardiovascular health. The flavonoids present in cranberry have antioxidant properties and can lower the risk of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a disease in which the arteries are narrowed, due to the accumulation of fat, calcium, and cholesterol found in the blood.
This obstructs the flow of oxygen-rich blood to various parts of the body and can lead to potentially fatal outcomes such as heart attacks and strokes. These compounds have been shown to help delay and suppress low-density lipoprotein (LDL) oxidation and beneficially stimulate blood platelets.
Cranberry Prevents Urinary Infections: Urinary tract infection refers to the presence of microorganisms in the urine beyond the allowed limit. There is significant evidence to suggest that cranberry juice helps prevent urinary tract infection.
The proanthocyanidins found in cranberry juice prevent bacteria from attaching to cells in the bladder walls. These compounds prevent bacteria from multiplying further and being released from the body through urine.
This juice makes the urine more acidic, thus creating an environment that is inhospitable for the infection-causing bacteria to thrive. Drinking cranberry juice regularly can prevent recurrent tract infections in middle-aged and pregnant women.
Cranberry Possesses Anti-tumor Properties: The polyphenol component present in Cranberry has anti-tumor effects. Regular consumption of cranberry juice inhibits the development and spread of lung, breast , colon and prostate tumors . The presence of salicylic acid reduces swelling and prevents the formation of blood clots that can lead to the tumor.
Cranberry Benefits for Treating Acne: The antiseptic properties of the juice are very effective in treating acne and boils on the skin. Cranberry is rich in resveratrol, an antioxidant, which is very effective in minimizing acne and pimples. A mask made with cranberry, main brightens the skin and offers instant freshness.
Mix the cranberry with orange peel powder and a little honey. Make a thin paste. Apply all over the face and leave for 20 minutes. When applied on a regular basis, it is sure to give the skin a lighter tone.
This obstructs the flow of oxygen-rich blood to various parts of the body, which can lead to heart attack or stroke. These compounds found in cranberries suppress low-density lipoprotein oxidation and encourage the formation of blood platelets.
Cranberry Fights Tooth Decay: Cranberry is also known to prevent tooth decay. Proanthocyanidin, found in cranberries, inhibits the growth of plaque-causing bacteria and prevents teeth from decaying due to the development of cavities.
Other Health Benefits of Cranberry:
- Cranberry causes satiety is an excellent help for those who want to lose weight.
- Cranberry is an excellent source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Vitamin K.
- Cranberry helps reduce blood cholesterol levels.
- Cranberry Prevents gastritis and ulcer, as it prevents the attachment of certain bacteria to the stomach mucosa.
- Cranberry Improves our mental health.