One of only a handful of fruits native to North America, cranberries have been used by Native Americans for centuries as a food source and healing agent. Cranberries are available in raw, dried, frozen, tablet and capsule forms. Cranberries are a rich source of vitamin C and antioxidants that may help prevent a variety of illnesses. Some of its first medicinal uses were for bladder infections and kidney disease.
Urinary Tract Infections
Cranberries may help prevent urinary tract infection of the bladder and urethra by reducing the amount of bacteria present. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, studies show that older women who regularly drank cranberry juice had significantly lower levels of urinary tract infections than those in a placebo group.
Antioxidants
Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, including vitamin C. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals, which damage cells and cause cell death. In particular, cranberries are high in proanthocyanidins, which are antioxidants that give cranberries their vibrant color and contain antiaging properties. Antioxidants may also protect against heart disease by lowering unhealthy LDL cholesterol and preventing plaque buildup along the arterial walls.
Gum Disease and Ulcers
Cranberries may prevent bacteria from attaching to your gums and teeth, thus helping to prevent cavities. Cranberries may also prevent ulcer-causing bacteria from adhering to stomach walls. Peptic uclers are sores lining the stomach or duodenom, typically caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria. While cranberries may help prevent uclers, they should not be used to treat them. Consult your doctor for appropriate medical treatment if you are experiencing symptoms of an ucler.
Considerations
While cranberries may prevent urinary tract infections, they are not appropriate for the treatment of the condition, so you should contact your doctor for antibiotics. Because cranberry juice tends to be high in sugar, individuals should limit their intake, as consuming too much will undermine many of its health benefits. Cranberries also have high levels of a chemical that increase the risk of kidney stones called oxalate, so it is advisable to consume them in moderation.
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