Besides being a rich source of vitamin C and dietary fiber, cranberries also contains potent antioxidants called flavonoids, which are responsible for a wide variety of health effects. Research suggests that consuming cranberry extract capsules can provide the same health benefits as cranberries, but without sugar and calories. Consult your health care provider before taking any supplements.
Prevents Urinary Tract Infections
Cranberry products might prevent urinary tract infections, according to a study conducted by lead author Paola Pinzon-Arango and researchers from Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Massachusetts. The report, which was published in the March 2009 issue of the "Journal of Medicinal Food," revealed that cranberry products contain flavonoids called proanthocyanidins, which prevent the growth of E. coli bacteria on urinary tract walls. E. coli is the main bacteria responsible for urinary tract infections.
Reduces the Risk of Colon Cancer
Cranberry extracts may reduce the risk of developing colon cancer. Researchers from the University of Prince Edward Island examined the effects of cranberry extracts on human colon cancer cells. At the end of the study, which was reported in the February 2009 issue of the "Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture," lead author Richard Narayansingh and colleagues discovered that cranberry extracts reduces the expression of certain inflammatory processes associated with colon cancer.
Improves Cardiovascular Health
Researchers from the University of Wisconsin-Madison reviewed the clinical studies regarding the effects of cranberries on cardiovascular health. They concluded that cranberries flavonoids might improve cardiovascular health by decreasing total and LDL cholesterol. Scientists reported their findings in the 2002 issue of the journal "Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition."
Boosts Oral Health
Scientists from the University of Rochester studied the impact of cranberries on dental health. They discovered that cranberries high content of flavonoids reduces the risk of developing dental caries, or tooth decay, by preventing bacteria growth on the tooth surface, according to research presented at the 84th General Session of the International Association for Dental Research in June 2006.
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