Cranberries possess powerful antioxidants called polyphenols, which are associated with immune support and improving gastrointestinal health. The main type of polyphenolic compound found in cranberries is proanthocyanidins. Research suggests that drinking cranberry juice might supply a wealth of benefits that enhance overall health.
Urinary Tract Infections
Cranberry juice might decrease the risk of developing urinary tract infections. Scientists from Worcester Polytechnic Institute discovered that antioxidants found in cranberry juice prevent bacteria from attaching to cells in the urinary tract and inhibits bacteria from creating biofilms, or an environment where bacteria can grow and multiply. This in turn reduces the risk for urinary tract infections.
Cancer
Researchers from the University of Massachusetts reviewed the literature regarding the impact of cranberry on cancer. They reported in the January 2007 issue of "The Journal of Nutrition" that the antioxidant properties of cranberry help induce apoptosis, or cell death, of breast cancer cells and inhibit matrix metalloproteinases, which plays a role in promoting cancer cell growth.
Staph Infections
Cranberry juice might protect against staph infections, which are caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. Staph infections are usually not life threatening, but they may cause death if the infection reaches the heart or lungs. Researchers from Worcester Polytechnic Institute discovered that cranberry juice was effective in reducing the ability of Staphylococcus aureus to form biofilms that lead to the beginning of infection.
Heart Health
High-density lipoprotein, or HDL, cholesterol decreases the risk for heart disease by removing excess bad cholesterol from artery walls before it forms a plaque that disrupts blood flow to the heart. Researchers from Laval University in Canada discovered that men with elevated cholesterol levels consuming cranberry juice for 12 weeks experienced increases in HDL cholesterol levels.
References
- ScienceDaily; New Evidence on How Cranberry Juice Fights Bacteria That Cause Urinary Tract Infections; August 2010
- "The Journal of Nutrition"; Cranberry and Its Phytochemicals: A Review of In Vitro Anticancer Studies; Catherine C. Neto; January 2007
- ScienceDaily; Cranberry Juice Shows Promise Blocking Staph Infections; September 2010
- Nutra Ingredients; Cranberry Juice Improves Good Cholesterol; October 2004
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