While many people think cranberry juice is unhealthy, it is actually good for you, especially for your heart. Cranberry juice also has phytonutrients that have anti-inflammatory properties. These phytonutrients prevent inflammation, a main cause of heart problems. Inflammation can cause damage to blood vessels and arteries, and can also cause plaque and atherosclerosis.
High levels of polyphenols
Various studies have shown that cranberry polyphenols may help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. They can also affect gene expression and reduce oxidative stresses. The cranberry polyphenols also inhibit the production inflammatory molecules and improve mitochondrial function.
These findings are consistent with recent research on cranberry extract and its health benefits. Researchers discovered that cranberry juice is a powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory agent that can help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections. They also found that cranberry extract inhibited the growth and development of bacteria in the bladder. Another study showed that cranberry juice had a lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease in overweight and healthy volunteers.
Antioxidant properties
The antioxidant properties of cranberry juice come from a compound known as anthocyanins. This chemical is found in cranberries, and other reddish-brown fruits. It is anti-inflammatory and may protect the linings of the lungs against bacterial and viral infections. This chemical compound is a type phenol that has been linked with many health benefits.
Cranberry juice is good for the heart as it lowers levels of “bad” and “total cholesterol. This could help prevent coronary heart disease. It is also effective in fighting the bacteria that cause urinary tract infections. Cranberry juice prevents the growth Helicobacter Pylori, which can cause stomach ulcers. It can also be used to thin the blood.
Beneficial effects on heart health
A new study shows that cranberry juice may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Consumption cranberry juice may improve endothelium condition, which is the thin layer of cells that lines the arteries, veins and capillaries of the heart. Deficiencies in this layer can result in atherosclerotic lesion formation.
Recent research suggests that drinking two glasses of cranberry juice a day may help prevent the hardening of the arteries. The researchers found that two glasses of cranberry juice a day may reduce the number of osteocalcin-producing endothelial cells. Osteocalcin has been linked with hardening of the arteries.
Can cause kidney stones
A new study at the University of Texas Southwest Medical Center has explored the effects of cranberry juice on the formation of kidney stones. People with kidney stones often drink cranberry juice to ease pain from frequent urination. Crystallization of urine minerals causes kidney stones to form. Smaller stones can pass easily into the bladder. However, larger stones can lodge in the tube between your kidneys and the bladder. This can cause obstruction.
Although it can reduce the risk of kidney stones, cranberry juice should be consumed in moderation to avoid adverse effects. It is important to remember that cranberry extract can cause kidney stones. Talk to your healthcare professional before you start drinking it.
UTIs are not treated or prevented
Symptoms of UTI are common and painful, but they don’t always require antibiotics to cure them. Good hygiene can help reduce the risk of developing UTIs. The urethra in women is shorter so bacteria from the urinary system can move back into the body easier. UTIs can be prevented by changing tampons and pads often and avoiding feminine deodorants.
Antibiotics aren’t effective against biofilms, which are resistant to antibiotics. Recurrent UTIs can often be caused by biofilms that are difficult to treat. Antibiotics can also increase the likelihood of antibiotic resistance so they should only be used if absolutely necessary.
Ilana has been a vegan for over 10 years. She originally made the switch for health reasons, but soon found herself becoming more and more passionate about the ethical and environmental implications of a vegan lifestyle. Ilana is the author of The Graceful Kitchen, a blog all about veganism. She loves to cook up delicious and nutritious vegan meals, and share her recipes with others who are interested in leading a cruelty-free life. Ilana is also a strong advocate for using whole foods as the foundation of a healthy diet, and believes that going vegan is one of the best ways to achieve this.
