We all know how satisfying they are as a snack and how delicious they are as a drink, but there’s more than just taste involved when it comes to cranberries.
With more antioxidants than most other fruit, these little gems are known to have a positive effect on the whole body. And no-one knows it better than Dr Christina Khoo, the director of research science at Ocean Spray. Read on to get her top five health-related reasons why cranberries should be your summer fruit of choice!
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
There is now more than 50 years of evidence supporting the role of cranberries in fighting urinary infections. Research suggests consuming the powerful fruits on a regular basis can stop the burning sensation by preventing bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract walls.
Antibiotic resistance
Research also suggests that treating UTIs with natural products like cranberry juice can reduce the risk of developing antibiotic resistance – a growing phenomenon where viruses and bacteria are able to resist the effects of antibiotics.
Heart health
Chronic heart disease is a leading cause of death worldwide. Recent studies reveal that drinking a low-calorie cranberry juice cocktail twice a day will help lower the risk of heart disease, diabetes and stroke.
These illnesses are among the most common and costly health conditions, but luckily, they are also among the most preventable through dietary intervention. Studies have also shown that people drinking two glasses of low-calorie cranberry juice a day showed improved blood pressure, blood sugar levels, blood lipids, as well as C-reactive protein, a marker of inflammation.
Diabetes
There is emerging evidence to suggest that cranberries may help maintain blood sugar levels. Given they are naturally low in sugar, fat-free and a good source of fibre, researchers have begun looking into whether the consumption of reduced sugar and dried cranberries could improve blood sugar levels in adults with type 2 diabetes.
