The health benefits of drinking cranberry juice include the following. It can prevent urinary tract infections, lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. You can also improve your digestion.
Prevents urinary tract infections
Cranberries have long been used as a dietary supplement to help prevent urinary tract infections. They contain several organic substances that are thought to prevent bacteria from adhering to the uroepithelial cells in the urinary tract. However, the mechanism of action of cranberries is not fully understood.
Several studies have tested cranberry juice for the prevention of urinary tract infections in elderly women and men. However, the results have been mixed. Some studies showed no effect, while others found a positive effect.
The Cochrane Database systematic review cited low quality trials as a reason for not recommending cranberry. Other reviews concluded that cranberry could be effective for certain groups, but more studies are needed.
Compared to antibiotic treatment, cranberry products do not reduce the risk of repeat symptomatic UTI. Among women, one study found a non-significant reduction in risk of repeat symptomatic UTI. Another study found a lower risk of repeat symptomatic UTI in children.
The primary endpoint of these studies was the number of symptomatic UTIs reported by participants during a 12 month follow-up period. In some studies, a positive urine culture was the primary outcome.
These studies used a variety of different design approaches. Most used a cross-over design. Others used a factorial design. Many of the studies reported low compliance rates and withdrawal problems.
Several studies compared cranberry juice or a cranberry product to a placebo or an antibiotic. In some studies, the dosages of cranberry products were higher than in the placebo group. In other studies, the amount of active ingredient was not reported.
Despite the low quality of some of these studies, a handful of studies did find some evidence that cranberry prevents urinary tract infections. Specifically, two small studies reported a positive effect.
Lowers cholesterol levels
Among its many health benefits, cranberry juice has been found to lower cholesterol levels. Researchers have discovered that the fruit’s polyphenols can protect cells from free radicals. This may play a role in reducing CVD risks.
A low-calorie, high-polyphenol cranberry extract beverage (CEB) was given to participants daily for eight weeks. The beverage increased HDL “good” cholesterol, decreased LDL “bad” cholesterol, and improved redox status and vasodilation. It also reduced oxidative stress and inflammation.
Participants were randomized based on their age, body mass index (BMI), and gender. They were given a bottle of CEB, one 450 mL serving of placebo, or one eight-ounce glass of cranberry juice daily for the first month, and two glasses a day thereafter. Each beverage contained 2.5 grams of carbohydrates.
The results showed that the cranberry group had a significant decrease in total cholesterol and a significant increase in HDL cholesterol. However, the cranberry group did not show an improvement in triglyceride levels or fasting glucose.
In addition, the cranberry group had a decrease in C-reactive protein. C-reactive protein is produced by the liver. When it rises, it indicates inflammation in the body. Vinson suggests that this effect may be due to the fruit’s potent antioxidant properties.
Although researchers do not fully understand the mechanism behind the cranberry juice’s effect on cholesterol levels, it is possible that the fruit’s antioxidant content helps to reduce oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is a key contributor to the development of atherosclerosis.
Cranberries contain flavonoids and proanthocyanidins. These compounds are powerful antioxidants that can slow the aging process and fight off diseases.
Unlike many fruits, cranberries are low in sugar. For this reason, they are a good alternative to soda.
Improves digestion
The health benefits of cranberry juice include its ability to reduce cholesterol levels and improve digestion. Cranberry juice can also help to fight off free radicals and other toxins in the body.
In addition, cranberries are a good source of fiber, which is essential for digestive health. This helps to keep you full for longer and prevents you from reaching for unhealthy snacks.
One of the most important compounds found in cranberries is vitamin C. Vitamin C helps to boost your immune system, which helps to prevent various diseases. It also assists in healing injuries.
Another benefit of cranberry juice is its anti-inflammatory properties. Several studies have shown that cranberries can help to limit gum disease. These anti-inflammatory compounds may also reduce the risk of heart disease.
Researchers also believe that cranberries are beneficial for preventing urinary tract infections. They may do this through their ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause the infection.
Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, including a-type proanthocyanins. A-type proanthocyanins have been shown to inhibit bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract.
Preliminary research has also shown that cranberries can help to suppress the growth of bacteria that live in the oral cavity. These germs can cause plaque and cavities.
Moreover, cranberries are also rich in vitamin E. This antioxidant is necessary for healthy blood vessels.
Cranberry juice is also beneficial for those who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome. Cranberry juice can soothe an upset stomach, relieve constipation, and stimulate a bowel movement.
Because cranberries are so high in antioxidants, they can help to reduce oxidative stress. Oxidative stress causes the degradation of cells. As a result, aging and other health conditions occur.
Prevents eclampsia
Cranberry juice has a variety of health benefits, including fighting eclampsia. It is also a very healthy alternative to other junk foods, and is rich in antioxidants and flavonoids.
In addition to having a multitude of health benefits, cranberry juice can also help fight urinary tract infections. One of the most common problems pregnant women face is UTIs. If you are experiencing a urinary tract infection, drink a cup of cranberry juice to help treat the problem.
Pregnant women may wonder if cranberry juice is safe to consume during pregnancy. Fortunately, it is not dangerous, and there is little risk of harm to your baby. However, you should speak with your doctor before starting any supplement.
Cranberry juice is rich in antioxidants and dietary fiber, which are important for keeping your body healthy. Furthermore, the fruit contains an antimicrobial molecule called NDM, which is good for your teeth.
A study found that drinking a glass of cranberry juice daily reduced the risk of a UTI by 41 percent. Similarly, a study found that drinking a cup of cranberry juice daily had a positive effect on the symptoms of asymptomatic bacteriuria.
Several studies have shown that cranberry juice can improve the quality of your teeth. This is because it helps prevent plaque build-up in your arteries. The juice also contains vitamin C, which is a strong blood-pressure-lowering agent.
Although cranberry juice can prevent eclampsia, it cannot cure it. You should take a short course of antibiotics to fight the infection. Also, remember to take special precautions if you are a diabetic.
Considering all these facts, it is no surprise that cranberry juice has been studied for its benefits. For instance, a recent pilot study showed that consuming 240 milliliters of cranberry juice per day was beneficial in reducing the odds of an UTI.
Reduces risk of heart disease
Cranberry juice is a nutritious drink that can help lower heart disease risk. A number of previous studies have shown favorable effects on cholesterol levels, particularly HDL (good) cholesterol. This may be due to the antioxidant compounds found in cranberries. Nevertheless, more research is needed to prove the benefits of cranberries.
In order to study cranberry’s cardiovascular effects, researchers studied the effect of cranberry juice on blood pressure and other indicators of vascular health in healthy men and women. They were provided a healthy, calorie-controlled diet and were instructed to drink eight ounces of an assigned beverage twice a day for eight weeks.
Study leaders measured key indicators of cardiovascular function, including pulse wave velocity and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity. They found that cranberry juice decreased aortic stiffness. However, there was no effect on markers of inflammation or endothelial vasodilator function.
In addition to promoting heart health, cranberry may also reduce the risk of stomach ulcers and certain forms of cancer. Its phytochemicals also inhibit some common bacteria. These chemicals can prevent Helicobacter pylori from attaching to the walls of the stomach.
Another cranberry study looked at the effects of cranberry juice on the levels of C-reactive protein. Among the 44 subjects who completed the chronic crossover study, those who drank cranberry juice showed a reduction in C-reactive protein. Their levels of good cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol increased, reducing their risk of heart disease.
Other studies have shown that the fruit’s polyphenols can help support the cardiovascular system. The fruit’s high polyphenol content may help improve circulation and kidney function, as well as waste filtration.
Moreover, cranberries contain other nutrients, such as fiber, that can also promote digestive health. Some studies have found that cranberry juice can help fight urinary tract infections, but more research is needed to prove this benefit.