Cranberries

Benefits of Cranberries

The cranberry fruit is high in antioxidants, partly from substances called proanthocyanidins. Antioxidants scavenge damaging particles in the body known as free radicals. Environmental toxins (including ultraviolet light, radiation, cigarette smoking, and air pollution) can increase the number of free radicals in the body, which are believed to contribute to the aging process as well as the development of a number of health problems such as heart disease, cancer, and infections. Antioxidants can neutralise free radicals and may reduce or even help prevent some of the damage they cause. Cranberries are an excellent source of vitamin C as well, another important antioxidant. The juice is excellent against scurvy and to allay fevers. Cranberries also contain a potent vasodilator and have been used for breathing problems.

Note

Cranberries contain chemicals called oxalates, which may contribute to the formation of kidney stones. Drinking large amounts of cranberry juice (more than about a litre per day) or taking concentrated cranberry supplements may increase the risk of developing kidney stones. Therefore, individuals who have or who ever have had kidney stones should not consume very large amounts of cranberries or use supplemental cranberry products.

The use of supplemental cranberry products are not recommended for individuals who are taking warfarin.

I ate more 30 cranberries at one shot. i am having cranberries phobia now. The fruits is quite sour and bitter. As a result of consuming so much, i am now high in antioxidants. Healthy but.....