The Health Benefits Of Cranberries

The benefits of cranberries, or blueberries, are countless. These amazing little berries contain the most antioxidants of almost all fruits. They are widely used in gastronomy (especially in desserts), but also often in herbal medicines. Read more about all the health benefits of cranberries below.

The following health benefits are attributed to cranberries. They would:

• be anti-inflammatory
• protect the stomach
• be anti-bacterial
• dilate blood vessels
• antispasmodic work
• are platelet aggregation inhibitors
• be an astringent

In fact, the cranberry is one of the most nutritious foods, along with spinach, kiwi, celery and carrots. It is an essential ingredient that can aid in the detoxification of your body. So include it in your diet!

The health benefits of cranberries

Good for your eyesight

Did you know that cranberries are recommended for infections and disorders of the blood vessels in your eyes? It really is! They contain a high concentration of vitamin A, also known as retinol. This vitamin is good for the health of your eyes and therefore also for your vision. 

Cranberries are said to be beneficial for people suffering from cataracts. Cataract is an eye disease, which is characterized, among other things, by high eye pressure.

Protection against cardiovascular disease and diabetes

Cranberries are high in polyphenols. As a result, they may be able to protect you against diseases such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

Protection against urinary tract infections

One of the best-known health benefits of cranberries is the fact that they are natural antiseptics. This is due to their antibacterial properties. They would therefore be a very effective remedy for urinary tract infections.

Cranberry juice is also perfect for people who suffer from, for example, bladder infections or inflammation of the kidneys. Why is that so? Cranberries have a purifying effect, so they help to detoxify the body from harmful substances.

Good for your skin

Cranberries are a source of antioxidants and vitamins. That makes them ideal for maintaining healthy skin. They stimulate collagen production.

In addition, because they contain so many antioxidants, they can slow down premature cell aging.

Strengthening the immune system

According to a number of studies from Oregon State University , cranberries contain a mixture of stilbene, which is somewhat similar to vitamin D. Stilbene helps to strengthen your immune system and therefore your immune system.

Improving digestion and intestinal transit

The last of cranberries’ many health benefits: They contain proanthocyanidins. These are substances that prevent harmful bacteria from depositing on the inner walls of the gastrointestinal tract. 

For example, these substances can also help prevent stomach ulcers and dental plaque, because they prevent the proliferation of bacteria.

The nutritional value of cranberries

If you add 100 grams of cranberries to your diet, you will get the following nutritional values:

The good thing about cranberries is that you can eat them both dried and fresh, but in the end it’s always best to eat them as fresh as possible. Add them to smoothies or salads, for example with bananas, strawberries and apples. Or eat them as a snack, for example in a delicious natural yogurt.

Types of cranberries

There are several types of cranberries:

• The American black cranberry. These berries are blue-black in color and larger than most other cranberry varieties. They are exceptionally rich in vitamin C.

• Red or sour cranberries. These are small, soft pink berries, which are particularly popular in Northern Europe, Asia and North America.
• Small red cranberries. These grow in Northern Europe and Asia. The plant has distinctive triangular leaves.
• Red American Cranberries. These berries grow in Canada and the United States and have the same taste as apples.

How do you choose cranberries and how do you store them?

Finally, some facts about what to look for when buying cranberries and how to store them.

Pay special attention to the color and texture when you buy them. The best quality berries have a bright, intense color, and are dry and firm to the touch. So soft cranberries are not good.

If you want to store the berries, do this as follows:

• Remove berries with a white mold or a whitish color.
• Then keep them in the fridge.
• Another option is to spread them out on a tray. Then let them dry in the sun.