In addition to containing dietary fiber and vitamin C, cranberries is a rich source of antioxidants called polyphenols, which are responsible for a laundry list of benefits, from preventing urinary tract infections to reducing inflammation. Research also suggests that cranberries might improve heart health.
Blood Pressure
Cranberries might reduce blood pressure, a risk for factor for cardiovascular disease. Researchers from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse investigated the effects of cranberry polyphenols on vasodilatation, or widening of the blood vessels. At the end of the study, which was published in the fall 2000 issue of the "Journal of Medicinal Food," scientists discovered that rats consuming cranberry juice experienced increases in nitric oxide, which widened blood vessels and decreased blood pressure.
LDL Oxidation
Scientists from Cornell University in New York studied the impact of cranberry antioxidants on LDL oxidation, which increases the likelihood of LDL cholesterol to be deposited inside artery walls and damage arteries. In the report, which was published in the 2002 issue of the journal "Life Sciences," researchers revealed that 100 g of cranberries was effective in inhibiting LDL oxidation.
HDL Cholesterol Levels
Researchers from the University of Scranton investigated the effects of cranberry juice on cholesterol levels. They discovered that patients with high cholesterol who drank three glasses of cranberry juice per day for three months experienced significant increases in high density lipoprotein, or HDL, cholesterol levels. HDL cholesterol is considered healthy cholesterol, since it removes excess cholesterol from the blood and decreases the risk for heart disease, according to findings presented at the 225th national meeting of the American Chemical Society in 2003.
Side Effects
Although cranberries have heart benefits, side effects have been reported, including diarrhea and stomach upset. In addition, cranberries might increase the risk for kidney stones and should be avoided if you are allergic, according to MayoClinic.com. Consult your health care provider before taking any cranberry products, especially if you are pregnant.
References
- PubMed.gov: Cranberry Juice Induces Nitroc Oxide-Dependent Vasodilation in Vitro and Its Infusion Transiently Reduces Blood Pressure in Anesthetized Rats; M.A.Maher et al.; Fall 2000
- Life Science: Cranberries Inhibit LDL Oxidation and Induce LDL Receptor Expression in Hepatocytes; Y.F. Chu and R.H. Liu; August 2005
- Science Daiy: Study Provides New Evidence That Cranberry Juice May Help Fight Heart Disease
- Mayo Clinic: Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon)
