The cranberry has been used for nutritional and medicinal purposes for centuries. It is an evergreen shrub native to North America and is a relative to the blueberry. The berries of the cranberry bush are commonly used in the production of beverages and dietary supplements. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the cranberry fruit contains a high content of antioxidants called proanthocyanidins. Antioxidants help rid the body of free radicals, which can cause cell damages. The antioxidant content of cranberry juice enables it to have many medical uses.
Urinary Tract Infection
According to Mayo Clinic, there is evidence supporting the role of cranberry juice in the prevention of urinary tract infections in women, individuals with spinal cord injuries and nursing home residents. There is support for the claim that cranberry juice has a preventative quality against urinary tract infections, according to the Mayo Clinic. Cranberry juice prevents bacteria from adhering to the wall of the bladder, thus reducing the risk of infection.
Stomach Ulcer Prevention
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the consumption of cranberry juice may inhibit the formation of stomach ulcers. Cranberry juice can prevent the heliobacter pylori bacteria from adhering to the wall of the stomach, thus reducing the occurrence of stomach ulcers.
Dental Plaque Reduction
According to Mayo Clinic, cranberry juice may play a role in oral hygiene by the reducing the formation of dental plaque. Due to the anti-bacterial qualities of cranberry juice, it reduces the amount of bacteria in the mouth thus reducing the amount of dental plaque. It should be noted that cranberry juice is often very high in sugar content, which may counteract the anti-bacterial benefits when used for oral hygiene.
Kidney Stone Prevention
According to WHFoods.com, cranberry juice may play a role in the prevention of kidney stones. Cranberry juice contains a substance called quinic acid. Quinic acid makes the urine slightly acidic. The increase in urine acidity prevents calcium and phosphates from combining to form stones. Cranberry juice may reduce calcium levels in the urine by over 50% thus greatly reducing the probability of kidney stone formation.
Culinary Uses
Cranberries most common uses are in food preparations such as cranberry juice and cranberry sauce. According to Cooks.com, cranberry juice can be used in various other recipes. Cranberry juice can be incorporated into a jello recipe to add richness and depth of flavor. It can be used in a variety of punches and alcoholic drink mixtures. Cranberry juice can be used as an ingredient when preparing a cranberry pie. There are also some uses for cranberry juice such as preparation of a sauce to be served with beets. In addition, cranberry juice may be used instead of water to add moisture and flavor when slow roasting a piece of meat such as brisket.
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