Nutritionists often refer to cranberries as "wonder berries." These burgundy fruits are full of vitamins, antioxidants and cleansing superpowers. As such, they are often added to detox regimens to clear noxious toxins and plaque buildup from the body. Cranberry detox diets range from adding a glass of juice to your daily diet to following restricted regimens. Side effects are possible with stricter variations. Always consult a medical professional prior to embarking on a detoxification program.
Nutrition Facts
Cranberries contain the highest antioxidant content out of all fruit tested by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Antioxidants promote health and wellness by protecting cells from damaging free radicals. Cranberries also have proanthocyanidins, which can inhibit some infection-causing bacteria from binding to human cells. They are especially abundant in potassium and vitamins A, C and K, all of which are essential for good health.
Cleansing Benefits
Due to their cleansing nature, cranberry detox diets may help you to feel more energetic and balanced. Cranberries help to cleanse the lymphatic system and the eliminating organs that expel waste from the body. They have been shown to fight bacteria that cause urinary tract and kidney infections, gum disease and stomach ulcers. Their antioxidant properties may also help to guard against heart disease and certain cancers.
Uses
In "Flush for Life," nutrition expert Ann Louise Gittleman suggests adding cranberry juice to your daily regimen for general wellness. Unsweetened, pure and organic cranberry juice have the most nutritional value. Avoid cranberry juice cocktails that are loaded with sugar and preservatives.
Cranberry juice is also used in a variety of detox regimens, including the ever-popular Master Cleanse liquid fast. All4NaturalHealth.com incorporates cranberry juice into a two-week solid food detox that is based on a vegetarian diet.
Risks
Restrictive detox regimens may induce undesirable side effects, such as fatigue, nausea, dizziness, headache, low blood sugar, diarrhea, constipation, muscle cramps or joint pain. These symptoms usually resolve with adequate food intake. The acidity of cranberry juice may also cause stomach irritation. Reduce your consumption of the juice to alleviate this symptom.
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