Healthy Cranberries: Knowing the Health Benefits of Cranberries

Cranberries have long been recommended by housewives as a good preventive for urinary-tract infections. This finding has been confirmed by scientific research, and experts suggest that cranberries also have other health benefits, such as reducing the risk of heart disease, warding off certain cancers, and delaying gum disease.

The acidity in cranberries was long pointed out as the reason in preventing urinary-tract infections. However, new research quickly corrects the misconception; actually, it is the presence of many compounds that disable harmful bacteria. These bacteria are more easily flushed out with disabling them. This mechanism is particularly useful in combating some strains of Helicobacter pylori, the same bacteria responsible for stomach ulcers. It also inhibits plaque-causing bacteria from adhering to each other, delaying gum disease. These make cranberries a good alternative to antibiotics. Cranberries also show promise in combating the risk of getting heart disease. Cranberry juice increases good cholesterol, and promotes the multiplication of antioxidants in the bloodstream.

However, before stocking up on commercial cranberry juice, one should be wary of added sugars that may counteract its effects. The best ways to get the fix of cranberries is drink pure juice, or add these in cereals like corn flakes or oatmeal. You can also make shakes out of cranberries. If cranberries are too tart for you, try adding a little sugar, or add sugar substitutes if you are diabetic. Try basting your meats, like turkey and chicken, with cranberry marinade made out of its juice and your other seasonings.

You can also consider supplementing with capsules containing cranberry concentrates. However, as supplements are quite expensive, it is still best to source your cranberry fix from regular food. Besides, supplements are not substitutes to a healthy, sensible diet. The best way always is to eat right, enjoy your food, and make your meals interesting.