For Fact, a recent study showed its effectiveness in reducing E. coli bacteria in urine at twice the levels of the placebo, which is a substance containing no medication and prescribed or given to reinforce a patient's expectation to get well.
•The Cranberry is well known for its protective effects on the urinary tract. A 2006 study supports this, by showing that the berry can inhibit the formation and activity of the bacteria that causes urinary infections.
Suggested Health Benefits Cranberries
•Urinary Tract Infections - People often take cranberry supplements to prevent urinary tract infections caused by bacteria. Specifically, the proanthocyanidins found in the cranberry appear to block the adhesive strands on the E. coli bacteria from sticking to a surface, therefore inhibiting their ability to stick to the cell walls of the uterus and bladder.
•Reduction of Dental Plaque - It is also believed that cranberry juice can inhibit the bacteria that cause dental plaque.
•Anti-Cancer Activity - Based on medical evaluation of several vitro screening tests, it has been suggested that the proanthocyanidin compounds found in the cranberry may exhibit some anti-carcinogenic activity.
•Kidney stones - Some medical professionals and specialists believe that the cranberry may also help to prevent the development of kidney stones.
The cranberry also ranks 125 on the ORAC Values of Dried Fruit and Vegetables. I will be bringing this chart up in several future posts. I will also go into detail on what this chart is exactly, and how you can understand what it measures. Until then, have fun with prep work for Thanksgiving and don't forget to add some fruits to your dinner. Bring in the Cranberry and tell everyone the health benefits of eating such a beneficial berry.
