Cranberries and some other fruits, such as strawberries and blueberries, according to scientific studies, are a good source of ellagic acid, an antioxidant substance that has anti-cancer effects. Based on the results of clinical trials, this ingredient appears to prevent the alteration of DNA, i.e. our genetic material, “disarms” the action of cancer cells and prevents the growth of tumors. However, what is impressive about the action of cranberry is that it fights cancer cells before and after the onset of the disease. It also prevents metastases. This antioxidant, when isolated in the laboratory, is not absorbed by the blood as well as when it is contained in the foods we consume. So, there is good news for those who eat cranberries often.
Source of flavonoids, vitamins B and C
By eating these fruits, we take care of our health in an additional way: We enrich our diet with more flavonoids. These are the plant pigments that are responsible for the red and yellow color of fruits and vegetables and have antioxidant properties. Specifically, they prevent damage caused by free radicals, that is, harmful oxygen molecules that can cause cancer, heart disease and other serious problems. Cranberries also contain vitamins C, D, potassium and iron, while they are very low in calories, so we can easily include them in a diet menu.
Fights urinary tract infections
For centuries, cranberries have been considered a traditional medicine for urinary tract infections. However, their therapeutic value in recent years has acquired a scientific basis. A Harvard University Medical School study of elderly women who drank 1-2 glasses of cranberry juice daily for six months found that the number of bacteria in their bladders was reduced and, in addition, they were almost 60% less likely to develop urinary tract infections. region. Also, women who had a UTI and drank the juice were 75% more likely to get over it faster than those who didn’t drink. Two components are responsible for the action of cranberries on urinary tract infections, fructose and another, the identity of which has not yet been determined. These two work in a way that prevents bacteria from sticking to the walls of the bladder and urethra.