Cranberries Health Benefits

Cranberries health benefits are well known. Most of us have heard that cranberry juice is known for its anti-adhesive properties. And indeed, it is a fact that cranberry juice washes away bacteria from the urinary tract.

If you suffer - or think you suffer - from a bladder infection, you should drink at least one half cup four times a day.

Other Benefits of Cranberry Juice

Cranberries are just plain good for your health:

They are rich in phytochemicals - Phytochemicals are plant chemicals which are very important to your body.

Cranberry juice is a good source of polyphenol antioxidants and phytochemicals, both of which are possible deterrents against cancer and disorders of the cardiovascular and immune systems.

That's a lot of benefits coming from a small fruit.

Prevents and treats urinary tract and kidney infections.

Reduces dental plaque - Experts say cranberry juice inhibits the growth of mouth bacteria that causes plaque.

Prevents formation of kidney stones.

Cranberries Health Benefits: Cranberry Facts

Cranberries are the fruits of trailing vines or sometimes dwarf evergreen shrubs.

The shrubs thrive in acidic soil.

Its vines are slender with wiry stems with small evergreen leaves.

Cranberries are found throughout the colder parts of the Northern Hemisphere. Young cranberries start out white and only when fully grown will turn the deep red color we all know and love.

How Are Cranberries Harvested?

Cranberries are harvested in the fall - as early as late September and into October - when the berries take on their distinctive red color. The cranberry beds are completely flooded with water, covering the vines by 6 to 8 inches.

Afterwards, a harvester is drawn across the bed so the berries are detached from the vines as neatly as possible. When the cranberries float to the surface, they are pushed to one side and from there pumped out of the bed. Then the berries are cleaned, processed and sorted for shipment.

Benefits of Cranberries

Cranberries contain:

Magnesium

Calcium

Potassium

Phosphorus

Vitamin A

Beta carotene

Lutein and Zeaxanthin***

***Lutein and Zeaxanthrin are carotenoids contained within the retina of the eye. Zeaxanthin is the dominant component within the central macula, whereas in the peripheral retina, lutein predominates. Carotenoids are natural fat-soluble pigments found principally in plants.

To leave a comment or review Click Here

Read others' comments and reviews.

Cranberries Health Benefits: Reviews

Any thoughts? A story of your own? Share with us!