What Are The Benefits Of Cranberry Vitamins & Juice?

Cranberries have long been touted as having significant health benefits. Both cranberry juice and cranberry capsules are easy ways to gain the benefits of cranberries. For best results, opt for unsweetened juice and capsules that contain pure powdered cranberry or cranberry extract without fillers. Just one serving of unsweetened cranberry juice or two cranberry capsules a day may provide you with significant health benefits.

Antioxidant

Cranberries have properties similar to those of other darkly colored berries. They are an excellent source of antioxidants. According to Science Daily, a 2001 comparison of fruits by the American Chemical Society showed that cranberries had a high concentration of phenols, which is an antioxidant associated with numerous health benefits. Antioxidants fight oxidative free radical damage to cells in the body that can lead to aging, chronic disease, cancer and heart disease.

Urinary Tract Health

Support of urinary tract health is one of the most well known benefits of cranberries. According to The Cranberry Institute, cranberries have been used in this capacity for centuries, and such use continues to this day. Cranberries are effective in battling urinary tract infections because they cause the walls of the urinary tract to become slippery so the bacteria leading to infection can't adhere. Just eight oz. of cranberry juice offers protection against urinary tract infections for up to 10 hours after ingestion.

Anti-adhesion of E. coli Bacteria

The anti-adhesion properties of cranberry juice don't just affect the urinary tract, according to the Cranberry Institute. These properties have the same effect on E. coli bacteria throughout the body. E. coli can lead to ulcers, infections and other health conditions. This effect may lead to a lessened need for antibiotics among populations who regularly supplement with cranberry juice or capsules, which may result in lower incidences of antibiotic resistance.

Dental Health

Cranberry has been studied for use in dental health. Findings published in the Journal of the American Dental Association indicate that one component of cranberry juice inhibits the oral bacteria that causes plaque and gum disease. According to the Cranberry Institute, cranberry may also neutralize the microbes that lead to cavities.

Recommendations

Studies about the positive health effects of cranberry juice and cranberry capsules are ongoing; however, initial results look promising. Including moderate amounts of unsweetened cranberry juice or one to two cranberry capsules as part of your daily health routine may confer lasting benefits that can lead you to better health.