Benefits of Cranberry Juice
The bright red colored cranberries are closely related to blueberries. There are different varieties of cranberry, which grow in North America and Europe. The cultivated cranberries of USA and Canada are bigger than the ones found in Europe. The juices of cranberries have become immensely popular nowadays owing to their health benefits.
Remedy for urinary tract infection
Cranberry juice has been used for generations for curing urinary tract infection. To start an infection, bacteria first need to attach to the walls of the urinary tract. Studies have found that cranberry juice prevented bacteria from latching on the urinary tract wall.
Moreover, hippuric acid, an antibacterial agent, found in cranberry juice kills the E.coli bacteria responsible for urinary tract infection. Further cranberry juice increases the acidity of the urine, making it unsuitable for infection causing bacteria to survive in the urinary tract.
To prevent as well as cure urinary tract infection, regular consumption of cranberry juice is recommended. Studies have found that greater the consumption of cranberry juice better is it for the urinary tract health. For best results, regularly consume eight ounces of cranberry juice.
Prevents kidney stones
Cranberry juice could prevent kidney stones. It is especially recommended for individuals suffering from problems of recurrent kidney stones. Studies have found that quinic acid present in cranberry juice makes the urine slightly acidic. The extent of acidity is enough to prevent ions of calcium and phosphate to conglomerate to form stones. Cranberry juice also facilitates excretion of oxalic acid responsible for formation of kidney stones.
Increases good cholesterol
Cranberry juice increases the level of good cholesterol in the blood. It is believed that the antioxidant property of polyphenol, present in cranberry juice, is perhaps responsible for increasing good cholesterol. Cranberry juice could also reduce the triglyceride level. By significantly improving the lipid profile, cranberry juice could prevent cardiovascular diseases. Besides increasing level of good cholesterol, cranberry juice also reduces the rate of oxidation of bad cholesterol or LDL.
Antioxidant
Cranberry juice is one of the best sources of antioxidants. The antioxidant action of cranberry juice is beneficial in preventing cancers, especially lung, breast and prostate cancers and leukemia. It is believed that long-term consumption of cranberry juice could also prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
