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Cranberry cranberry, also known as cranberry orcranberry, is a fruit that has several medicinal properties, but is used mainly for the treatment of recurrent urinary infections, as it can prevent the development of bacteria in the urinary tract.
However, this fruit is also very rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants that can help in the treatment of other health problems, such as colds or flu. In addition, it can be a rich source of polyphenols, antibacterial, antiviral, anticancer, antimutagenic and anti-inflammatory properties have been attributed.
Cranberry can be found in its natural form in some markets and fairs, but it can also be purchased in health food stores and some drugstores in the form of capsules or syrups for urinary tract infections.
What is it for
Due to its properties, the cranberry can be used in some situations, the main ones being:
1. Prevent urinary infections
The consumption of cranberry, according to some studies, could prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract, especially Escherichia coli. Thus, if there is no adherence of the bacteria, it is not possible to develop infection and prevent recurrent infections.
However, there are not enough studies to indicate that cranberries are effective in treating urinary tract infections.
2. Maintain heart health
Cranberry, being rich in anthocyanins, could help lower LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and increase HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol). In addition, it is able to decrease oxidative stress due to its antioxidant content and anti-inflammatory effect, which reduces the risk of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases.
In addition, there is evidence that it could help lower blood pressure, as it decreases the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which promotes blood vessel contraction.
3. Decrease blood sugar levels
Due to its flavonoid content, regular consumption of cranberry could help lower blood sugar and improve insulin sensitivity, according to some animal studies, as it improves the response and function of the pancreatic cells responsible for secreting insulin.
4. Prevent cavities
Cranberry could prevent cavities because it prevents the proliferation of bacteria Steptococcus mutans in the teeth, which is associated with cavities.
5. Prevent frequent colds and flu
Because it is rich in vitamin C, E, A and other antioxidants, in addition to having antiviral properties, the consumption of cranberry could prevent the frequent flu and cold, as it prevents the virus from adhering to cells.
6. Prevent the formation of ulcers
According to some studies the cranberry helps to reduce the infection caused by the bacteria Helicobacter pylori, which is a major cause of stomach inflammation and ulcers. This action is due to the fact that the cranberry has anthocyanins that exert antibacterial effect, preventing this bacterium from causing damage to the stomach.
Cranberry nutritional information
The following table indicates the nutritional information in 100 grams of cranberry:
Components | Quantity in 100 grams |
Calories
| 46 kcal |
Protein | 0.46 g |
Lipids | 0.13 g |
Carbohydrates | 11.97 g |
Fibers | 3.6 g |
Vitamin C | 14 mg |
Vitamin A | 3 mcg |
Vitamin E | 1.32 mg |
Vitamin B1 | 0.012 mg |
Vitamin B2 | 0.02 mg |
Vitamin B3 | 0.101 mg |
Vitamin B6 | 0.057 mg |
Vitamin B9 | 1 mcg |
Hill | 5.5 mg |
Calcium | 8 mg |
Iron | 0.23 mg |
Magnesium | 6 mg |
Phosphor | 11 mg |
Potassium | 80 mg |
It is important to mention that in order to obtain all the benefits mentioned above, iron must be included in a balanced and healthy diet.
How to consume
The form of use and the amount of cranberry that should be ingested daily is not yet defined, however the recommended dose to prevent urinary infections is 400 mg two to three times a day or take 1 cup of 240 mL of cranberry juice without sugar three times a day.
To prepare the juice, put the cranberry in the water to make it softer and then put 150 grams of cranberry and 1 and a half cups of water in the blender. Due to its astringent flavor, you can add a little orange or lemon juice and drink without sugar.
The cranberry can be consumed in the form of fresh fruit, dehydrated fruit, in juices and vitamins, or in capsules.
Secundary effects
Excessive consumption of cranberries could cause gastrointestinal changes such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. In addition, this fruit could favor the urinary excretion of oxalate, which can lead to the formation of calcium oxalate stones in the kidneys, however further studies are needed to prove this side effect.
Who should not use
In cases of benign prostatic hypertrophy, obstruction of the urinary tract or people at risk of having kidney stones, cranberry should only be consumed according to medical advice.
To treat recurrent urinary infections, see the best home remedies for urinary tract infection.