Cranberries may be the key to treating a plethora of health-related conditions. In order to discover the benefits of this Native American fruit, researches conducted a number of studies. Some of the areas of interest include:
- Bacterial anti-adhesion
- High antioxidant capacity
- Heart health
- Anti-cancer properties
Proving Cranberry Power
In a related study, researchers proved that a beverage containing 25 percent cranberry juice inhibited bacteria from binding and accumulating on an artificial tooth by 67-85 percent. This led researchers to suggest that cranberry dental floss and toothpaste might ultimately provide consumers with a healthier smile.
Further, cranberries have naturally high levels of antioxidants. One benefit is that these high levels may provide protection against cardiovascular disease. One study demonstrated how a low-calorie cranberry juice decreased total blood cholesterol, while another observed an increase in HDL. Researchers also suggested that an antioxidant mechanism found in cranberries might help reduce the severity of a stroke.
Finally, researchers claim that cranberries may help prevent certain cancers, due to their antioxidant profile. In fact, it was suggested that cranberries inhibit growth of the following cancer cells:
- Prostate
- Colon
- Breast
- Cervical
- Lung
- Leukemia
Medical News Today November 9, 2004
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