|
Cranberries - Simple Protection from Cancer and Heart
Disease
When is the last time you ate cranberries?
Was it with a turkey dinner? With all the research pointing
to the amazing health benefits of this simple berry,
shouldn't cranberries be more than a once a year side
dish?
How Cranberries Are Proving Their
Strength:
The Cranberry Institute provides the
results of studies and research that highlight the fantastic
health benefits of the humble cranberry.
Cranberries have been used for thousands
of years by Native Americans as a source of food and
to extend the shelf life of dried meats. Colonial sailors
also made use of the natural preservatives in cranberries
(from benzoic acid) which allowed them to last through
long sea voyages, and the high Vitamin C content which
prevented scurvy.
Perhaps they were on to something since
new research suggests that cranberries may prevent the
adhesion of the e.coli bacteria - a common cause of
food poisoning from contaminated meat - to the urinary
tract. This 'anti-adhesion' effect may also help in
preventing bacteria from causing stomach ulcers and
gum disease.
Vitamin C is also a known powerful antioxidant
and is being widely accepted as a means of combating
the effects of free radicals in the body which can cause
cancer, heart disease and other health problems. Antioxidants
from cranberries are being researched for prevention
of kidney stones and lowering cholesterol.
While many fruits contain antioxidants,
according to research cranberries have more antioxidants
than 19 commonly eaten fruits. With this news it makes
sense to include cranberries into a balanced diet throughout
the year.
How Can You Include Cranberries Into
Your Diet?
Fresh, frozen or dried, cranberries
can be eaten anytime of the year.
Adding dried cranberries to baking (such
as scones, breads and cookies) is an easy way to enjoy
their tart sweetness. Adding frozen cranberries to smoothies
or soups can lend a mild tang to your creations. Fresh
cranberries make excellent garnishes and dressings.
The easiest way to add cranberries to
your diet is to drink cranberry juice. While sweetened
juices have less antioxidants than unsweetened, the
benefits of adding cranberry to your diet are still
there. If you add unsweetened juice to sparkling water
you can enjoy a refreshing spritzer.
While studies are still being conducted
on the health benefits of cranberries there is no doubt
that increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables
in your diet will lead to a healthier body. Choosing
to use a variety of berries, citrus and other fruits
will ensure you are giving your body everything it needs
for optimum health.
1howto.com
--------------------------------------------------
Please
Share Your Tips with Us
|
