Photo: Image: Getty, Design: EatingWell Although fresh cranberries are too tart to eat alone, cranberry products are full of health benefits. “Cranberries carry many antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that are attributable to their rich content in vitamins C, A and K, as well as phytochemicals such as anthocyanins, flavonoids and phenolic acids,” says Qianzhi Jiang, Ph.D., RDN , owner of The Nutrition Changer. In turn, they’re shown to benefit urinary, gut, immune and oral health. In this article, learn about the health benefits, nutrition and safety considerations for eating cranberries.
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You May Prevent A Urinary Tract Infection
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) happen when bacteria enter the urethra, infecting the urinary tract. They’re more common in females and they cause unpleasant symptoms like pain or burning during urination, frequent urination and abdominal cramping.1
One of the most popular uses of cranberries or cranberry juice is preventing UTIs . “Cranberries are rich in antioxidants such as polyphenols, anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins. Proanthocyanidins help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections by preventing bacteria from attaching to the bladder wall,” explains Vandana Sheth, RDN, CDCES, a plant-based and diabetes expert. For these potential benefits, choose 100% cranberry juice without added sugars. Also, avoid using cranberries to treat a UTI; see your doctor for diagnosis and proper treatment.
Research shows cranberries are especially helpful for children, women with recurrent UTIs and people susceptible to UTIs due to treatments like bladder radiotherapy. That said, they’re not shown to be helpful for elderly individuals in residential care facilities, pregnant people or people with nerve-related bladder emptying problems.2 You May Have A Healthier Gut
In addition to preventing bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract, the antioxidants in cranberries may also help prevent harmful bacteria from sticking to the intestines, explains Stacey Woodson, M.S., RDN , a registered dietitian nutritionist and author. This could help stave off digestive disorders. Plus, fresh and dried cranberries provide fiber , which is one of the most important nutrients for gut health. It supports a healthy gut microbiome […]
What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Cranberries Regularly
