Novotny JA, Baer DJ, Khoo C, Gebauer SK, Charron CS. Cranberry juice consumption lowers markers of cardiometabolic risk, including blood pressure and circulating C-reactive protein, triglyceride, and glucose concentrations in adults.

J Nutr. Weh KM, Clarke J, Kresty LA. Cranberries and cancer: an update of preclinical studies evaluating the cancer inhibitory potential of cranberry and cranberry derived constituents. Antioxidants Basel. Das S. Natural therapeutics for urinary tract infections-a review.

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By Cynthia Sass, MPH, RD. Cynthia Sass, MPH, RD. Cynthia Sass is a nutritionist and registered dietitian with master's degrees in both nutrition science and public health. Frequently seen on national TV, she's Health's contributing nutrition editor and counsels clients one-on-one through her virtual private practice.

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Newsletter Sign Up. Xiao, Shu Dong; Shi, Tong Chinese Journal of Digestive Diseases , , 4 3 , OBJECTIVE: It is well known that eradication of Helicobacter pylori infection results in healing of peptic ulcer and regression of gastric mucosal inflammation. Cranberry juice beverages have been shown to achieve good results in the prevention of recurrent urinary tract infection.

The present study aimed to investigate whether a cranberry juice cocktail could eradicate or prevent H. pylori infection in mice.

pylori and 2 weeks later, 80 mice were randomly allocated into four groups: Group A, cranberry juice 0. pylori and left untreated. The mice were killed after 24 h and 4 weeks and H. pylori infection status was assessed by rapid urease test and by culture and histology, respectively.

In the prevention trial, 40 mice had oral cranberry juice for 30 days. In the last 5 days days , the mice were divided into four groups: Group A, challenged orally with H.

pylori three times on days 26, 28 and 30 when the mice were not given cranberry juice; Group B, challenged with H. pylori suspended in cranberry juice; Group C, challenged with H.

pylori 6 h after receiving juice; Control group, no cranberry juice, but challenged with H. Two weeks later, the mice were killed to assess the status of H. pylori infection. None of the mice were clear of H. Cranberry juice was not effective in preventing H. pylori infection in the mice used in this study.

Interview: Red cranberries are spread in the Japanese market as health food Ionta, K. Food Style, 21 , , 6 5 , Evaluation of Fruit Chemistry in Cranberry Germplasm: Potential for Breeding Varieties with Enhanced Health Constituents Vorsa, N; Polashock, J; Howell, A; Cunningham, D; Roderick, R Acta Horticulturae , , no.

Fruit and specific components within fruit are being associated with human health attributes, such as maintenance of urinary tract health and antioxidant status. Previous analyses of chemical constituents in cranberry fruit have been limited to a small number of compounds and have utilized the fruit from relatively few cultivars.

Furthermore, recent DNA fingerprinting studies have revealed a high level of varietal misidentification within cranberry cultivars, which may have complicated the interpretation and conclusions from the previous studies.

A comprehensive collection of cranberry germplasm, including domesticated and undomesticated varieties, has been established and is being maintained in genetically homogeneous field plots.

Fruit samples were collected over two harvest dates in from over producing germplasm plots. Horticultural yield, fruit size, fruit rot, etc. and fruit chemistry traits were evaluated. Fruit chemistry traits included total phenolics, total and individual anthocyanins, proanthocyanidins, soluble solids, titratable acidity, quinic acid, citric acid, malic acid, and individual sugars.

Significant genetic variability was found for overall phenolic, anthocyanin and proanthocyanidin levels as well as for specific phenolics, organic acids and sugars.

The levels of phenolic compounds within fruit are negatively correlated with horticultural traits such as yield, fruit size, etc. Varieties having unique chemistry profiles offer genes for breeding varieties with desired fruit chemistry profiles for enhanced health attributes.

Cranberry Flavonoids, Artherosclerosis, and Cardiovascular Health Reed, J Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition , , 42 3 , The Role of Cranberry and Probiotics in Intestinal and Urogenital Tract Health Reid, G Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition , , 42 3 , Several forces are driving an expanded use of nutraceuticals, particularly functional foods and probiotics, as instruments of the restoration and maintenance of well-being.

These include consumer desire to use natural rather than pharmaceutical products, the mounting scientific evidence that shows efficacy of certain nutraceutical products, and the increasing cost and continued failure of drugs to cure or prevent disease.

There is now a strong scientific basis for use of cranberries to reduce the risk of E. coli adhesion to bladder cells and the onset of urinary tract infection. There is also a mechanistic basis and clinical support for use of Lactobacillus strains such as L. rhamnosus GR-1 and L. fermentum RC to colonize the intestine and vagina and reduce the risk of intestinal and urogenital infections.

For such alternative approaches to be successful, scientific rigor must be backed by public education and physician acceptance. Given the emergence of virulent and multidrug-resistant pathogens, time is not on our side. Cranberry Proanthocyanidins and the Maintenance of Urinary Tract Health Howell, AB Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, , 42 3 , Traditionally, the juice was thought to cause acidification of the urine resulting in a bacteriostatic effect.

However, recent research has demonstrated that a bacterial antiadhesion mechanism is responsible. Proanthocyanidins with unique molecular structures have been isolated from cranberry fruit that exhibit potent bacterial antiadhesion activity. Foods and Health Promotion: The Case for Cranberry Milner, JA Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition , , 42 3 , Latest Developments in Cranberry Health Research Leahy, M; Speroni, J; Starr, M Pharmaceutical Biology , , 40, Urinary tract health benefits have long been ascribed to the American cranberry, Vaccinium macrocarpon , through folklore.

Now, a growing body of science supports this association. Current research suggests that this benefit is due to components in cranberry preventing the adhesion of certain bacteria in the urinary tract. Cranberry's relatively unique A-type proanthocyanidins were identified as the compo-nents that prevented the adhesion of P-fimbriated E.

coli to uroepithelial cells using bioassay-directed fractionation techniques. Very recently, using an animal model, in vivo evidence was obtained suggesting that cranberry proanthocyanidins were absorbed and elicited this specific anti-adherence activity in urine.

Recent preliminary research suggests that cranberry's microbial anti-adhesion effect may extend into the gastrointestinal tract, which may contribute to both the urinary tract health benefit as well as preventing attachment of H.

pylori , the bacteria responsible for many peptic ulcers. Diets high in fruits, vegetables, and grains contribute to improving health status in a number of ways. Oxidative stress may play a role in the development of many chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases.

Ex vivo testing indicates that cranberry flavonoids inhibit the oxidation of human LDL cholesterol, with proanthocyanidins the most active flavonoid fraction. Additionally, a diet rich in cranberry juice powder significantly reduced the total and LDL cholesterol in hypercholesteremic pigs.

Cranberry appears to be a relatively unique fruit in that it may provide benefits both through microbial anti-adhesion and possibly through antioxidant mechanisms.

The Cranberry — Promising Health Benefits, Old and New - Another Reason to Eat Your Cranberries at Thanksgiving Leahy, Marge; Roderick, Robin; Brilliant, Kate Nutrition Today, , 36 5 , 12 pages.

Cranberries may also positively affect cholesterol levels and were shown to reduce cardiometabolic risk factors in a review published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture in November Cranberries and cranberry juice may be linked with other benefits for digestive health , heart health, brain health, and dental health, as the Cleveland Clinic notes , but the research surrounding each of these is murky.

You can store fresh cranberries in your refrigerator for up to one month or in the freezer for up to one year, according to Ocean Spray. Dried cranberries should be kept in a tightly sealed package in the pantry and should be consumed by the best-by date on the package. When shopping for cranberry juice, look for the variety with the smallest amount of added sugar, Harrington advises.

And keep in mind that a serving size for a glass of juice is smaller than you might think. Jones recommends enjoying the juice with a meal or a substantial balanced snack to blunt the blood sugar response.

Use them dried or fresh; sprinkle them on salads, juice them, or even eat them raw. Harrington likes to toss a few into a bowl of oatmeal or yogurt, or turn them into a simple relish. The raw fruit may not jibe with your taste buds. One past study suggested that people who took cranberry extract for 12 weeks saw fewer recurrent UTIs.

If you prefer cranberry in juice form, the University of Rochester Medical Center recommends 6 to 10 oz per day , divided between meals. Previous research found that mouthwash containing cranberry extract reduced the presence of the Streptococcus mutans bacteria more significantly than a placebo.

Streptococcus mutans are acid-producing bacteria that can colonize the surface of teeth and cause damage. Cranberries are generally safe, but they can sometimes lead to upset stomach and diarrhea when eaten in large quantities, especially by young children.

This could increase the risk of bleeding. Cranberries in their various forms have been linked to many potential health benefits, from preventing UTIs to keeping cholesterol levels in check while promoting a healthy heart. Additional reporting by Kristeen Cherney. Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy.

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By Moira Lawler. Medically Reviewed. Kayli Anderson, RDN. Nutrition Benefits Jump to More Topics. Department of Agriculture USDA : 46 calories 0. Cranberries and cranberry juice are rich in antioxidants and are excellent sources of vitamin C. Can you eat raw cranberries? Are cranberries bad for you?

Not at all. Cranberries are generally good for you, though people on blood thinners should limit or avoid them. Can I drink cranberry juice? Many brands have sugar and flavor added, which takes away from the healthfulness.

Too much juice can lead to stomach issues, so speak to your doctor if you notice any adverse effects. Does cranberry juice clean your kidneys? Here are some potential cranberry benefits. Prevent Urinary Tract Infections UTIs Cranberry juice is often said to help with UTIs, which are common bacterial infections.

Get your cranberry fix by cooking up one of these six recipes. Pile all your fall favorites into this Roasted Butternut Squash Winter Salad With Kale, Farro, and Cranberry Dressing from Kitchen Confidante.

Sip a healthy and festive Cranberry Smoothie by Jessica Gavin. Whip up a classic Homemade Cranberry Sauce from Dinner at the Zoo — with just six ingredients.

Update your go-to salad for fall with the Best Shredded Kale Salad from Oh She Glows. Wake up to a bowl full of hearty and healthy Cranberry Walnut Cookie Overnight Oats by Jenny Shea Rawn. Some people believe cranberries cause kidney stones. The idea stems from the fact that cranberries contain molecules called oxalates, which sometimes stick together and form a kidney stone, according to the National Kidney Foundation.

Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking. Resources Cranberries: A Colorful and Nutritious Fruit. South Dakota State University. December 5, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

May Vitamin C: Fact Sheet for Consumers. National Institutes of Health. March 22, Vitamin E: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.

March 26, Cranberry Juice. Department of Agriculture. April 1, Panche AN, Diwan AD, Chandra SR. Flavonoids: An Overview. Journal of Nutritional Science. December Grace MH, Massey AR, Mbeunkui F, et al.

Comparison of Health-Relevant Flavonoids in Commonly Consumed Cranberry Products. Journal of Food Science. August Raspberries are also fairly sweet but have a subtle tartness that distinguishes them from other fruits.

Additionally, while raspberries and blueberries are often enjoyed fresh as is, cranberries are typically dried or used in baked goods to take advantage of their incredibly unique flavor.

All three are rich in antioxidants as well as important nutrients, like vitamin C and fiber. They are all also very versatile and can be enjoyed in a number of different ways. For best results, include a good mix of all three in your diet, plus a variety of other fruits and veggies, to maximize the wide range of potential health benefits found in each.

Other beneficial berries include juniper berries , huckleberries and lingonberries. The cranberry tree is native to North America. It is farmed today on approximately 40, acres across the northern United States and Canada.

Cranberries are commonly used in American, European and Middle Eastern cuisines and can be found across the world in dried cranberry form. The cranberry plant is a major commercial crop in many different areas, but the fruit definitely becomes most popular around the holiday season. As many people are aware, it is in many traditional side dishes at Thanksgiving in the U.

Fall is usually the best time to get fresh cranberries, as they are harvested normally in September and October. This is the reason cranberries are used in many Thanksgiving and holiday season recipes. They tend to be most readily available and fresh through the late fall and early winter.

When choosing the best cranberries, look for fresh, plump ones that are a deep red color. This distinct cranberry color indicates that the fruit contains a higher concentration of the beneficial anthocyanin compounds.

They should also be firm to the touch, as firmness can indicate good quality. Cranberries can be found in ounce packages, or they can be bought fresh and stored in a container. Dried cranberries are easy to find in any grocery store. Look in the dried fruit or nuts section. You can refrigerate cranberries for up to two months, or you can freeze them for later use.

Cranberries can be kept in the refrigerator for about 20 days, and they can be kept frozen for several years. Looking for frozen cranberries in grocery stores is a great idea, because frequently you are able to find them at less expensive prices and even in organic varieties.

Cranberries can be eaten raw, fully cooked or in dried form. The health benefits of cranberries seem to be present most in raw form, but any way of eating whole cranberries usually still provides great benefits.

Just make sure they are not overly processed and mixed with loads of sugar, as they often are when used in many pre-packaged products and desserts.

Frequently, cranberries are processed into products such as juices, canned sauces, sugary jams and sweetened dried cranberries. This may make them convenient, but it also depletes them of their nutritional value and cranks up the sugar content.

This allows you to get the most nutrients possible and avoid excessive sugar intake. There are plenty of ways to add this nutritious fruit into your daily diet. For starters, you can enjoy cranberries in a homemade trail mix by adding dried cranberries to a mixture of other health-promoting nuts and seeds.

For a kick of antioxidants and nutrients, you can also add dried cranberries to salads, grain-free or sprouted grain cereals, smoothies, or oatmeal.

There are many cranberry recipes. Cook with fresh cranberries to make sauces or baked goods like muffins, pies and cobblers. Although cooked cranberries have many health benefits, they retain their maximum amount of nutrients and taste when they are fresh, allowing you to maximize the potential cranberry juice benefits.

Cranberry pills and capsules are often used as a natural treatment for conditions like urinary tract infections. They help flush out bacteria and provide quick relief from symptoms. Although there is no official recommended dosage of cranberry pills, they have been studied in doses ranging from —1, milligrams per day.

They have been shown to be effective in the treatment and prevention of urinary tract infections. Ideally, look for a product with a high concentration of proanthocyanidins. Proanthocyanidins are considered one of the active ingredients of cranberry pills and are credited with many of the potential health benefits.

Aim for at least 25 percent proanthocyanidins, which translates to about 36 milligrams per serving. Finally, check the ingredients label of products carefully, and steer clear of products with added fillers or extra ingredients to make sure you get the best quality possible.

If you have any concerns or experience any side effects, consult with your doctor to determine the best course of action for you. In North America, Native Americans were the first to use cranberries as food. The Algonquian people may have introduced them to the Massachusetts settlers, who then incorporated the fruit into their Thanksgiving feasts.

Henry Hall, an American Revolutionary War veteran, is known to be the first to farm cranberries in the Cape Cod town of Dennis, Mass.

Today, regions in Cape Cod are still very well-known for producing a large amount of fresh cranberries, which are later sold all around the world. Typically, cranberries grow on low, creeping shrubs or vines up to seven or eight feet high.

Cranberry vines have slender, wiry stems that are not thickly woody and have small evergreen leaves. If you take the blood-thinning drug Warfarin also known as coumadin , you may want to talk your doctor before adding cranberries to your diet.

In fact, several cases have been reported of patients who experienced an increase of bleeding due to suspected cranberry consumption while taking Warfarin. Consuming high amounts of cranberry products may also promote the formation of kidney stones because of the increase of urine oxalate excretion.

Cranberries are among a small number of foods that contain a measurable amount of oxalates , which are naturally occurring substances found in plants and animals.

Although the amount of oxalates found in cranberries is relatively low, they are able to increase the amount of both oxalates and calcium in the urine, resulting in urine with increased concentrations of calcium oxalate. Popular Nutrition Posts All Time This Week {position} Detox Your Liver: A 6-Step Liver Cleanse.

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