Have you ever heard that cranberry juice can work wonders for a UTI? Well, it's true! In fact, cranberries have a lot of benefits for the human body.
You can find cranberries in various forms, including fresh, dried, frozen, and in cranberry sauce. In this article, we'll be focusing on the benefits of cranberry juice. Interestingly, cranberries are grown in marshes and harvested from the water. When the berries are ripe, they float to the surface and receive extra sunlight exposure, which may boost their nutritional value.
But, cranberries offer more than just UTI relief. Keep reading to learn how cranberry juice can benefit your overall health.
1. Antioxidant Powers
Cranberry juice is not only renowned for its ability to support urinary tract health but also for its powerful antioxidant properties. These berries contain a variety of antioxidants including vitamin C and phytonutrients that combat free radicals in the body.
Antioxidants play a crucial role in protecting cells from damage, reducing inflammation, and preventing chronic diseases such as heart disease, specific cancer types, stomach ulcers, and diabetes. Additionally, the antioxidants in cranberries help the body fight age-related damage to its tissues. According to a 2011 study, cranberries were found to have better antioxidant activity when their pH was lower. The study also revealed that the berries were much more potent antioxidants than cranberry juice, though cranberry juice still provided significant benefits. Check out our Antioxidant Blast Juice blend for an extra dose of antioxidants!
2. Urinary Tract Health
Cranberry juice is popularly recognized for its potential to support urinary tract health. This is due to the presence of proanthocyanidins, which are compounds that hinder the attachment of bacteria to the urinary tract walls, thereby decreasing the likelihood of urinary tract infections (UTIs).
3. Heart Health
Studies have shown that cranberry juice can have a positive impact on heart health. This is achieved through several ways, including reducing cholesterol levels in the body, which can have a long-term effect in preventing heart diseases. Additionally, drinking cranberry juice may also help to unclog arteries that have been obstructed by lipids or cholesterol, ultimately reducing the risk of atherosclerosis.
4. Aids Digestive Health and Helps Fight Constipation
Cranberry juice is known to be a good source of dietary fiber, which can assist in digestion and prevent constipation. Furthermore, cranberries' natural compounds may help maintain a healthy digestive system and promote gut health.
Dehydration is a common cause of constipation in many individuals. They don't drink enough water, and their stool accumulates hardening the passage. However, drinking cranberry juice regularly may help avoid constipation as it is an effective dehydration fighter that has a mild laxative effect, making it easier to pass stool.
5. Oral Health
Cranberry juice can be a great help for those dealing with oral health issues and dental problems. This is due to a nutrient called proanthocyanidins present in cranberry juice. Its major component helps in fighting dental problems and preventing tooth decay.
The nutrient prevents unhealthy bacteria from sticking to the teeth, which stops plaque from forming. Moreover, it reduces damage to tooth enamel by reducing the formation of acids in the mouth that usually lead to gum disease.
6. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Cranberries have substances that are anti-inflammatory and can assist in decreasing inflammation in the body. This can be advantageous for people who are dealing with conditions such as arthritis, gastrointestinal disorders, or other diseases that cause inflammation.
7. Immune System Support
Cranberries contain vitamin C which can give the immune system a boost, helping to reduce the severity of symptoms from common colds and flu. It's important to note that cranberries only help to prevent illnesses like colds and flu and may ease symptoms. This can be helpful for those who suffer from these illnesses, as they can be quite debilitating. Here's a cranberry juice blend that's ideal for supporting your immune system.
8. Improves Skin Health and Reduce Acne
The antioxidants present in cranberry juice can have positive effects on the skin. They help protect against oxidative stress and may contribute to a healthier complexion and a reduction in signs of aging.
This vitamin C imposes its anti-inflammatory effects and helps acne-prone people fight off their acne. It reduces the development of comedones, whiteheads, pimples, etc.
9. Improves Sleep
Insomniacs, listen up! Here's some interesting information about cranberries that you may not know. These berries are packed with melatonin, which is commonly referred to as the 'sleep hormone' and can help improve sleep quality.
Melatonin helps people sleep better, and it is popularly known as the ‘sleep hormone.’ In fact, some individuals consume cranberry juice before bed to aid in falling asleep faster and sleeping more soundly.
10. It Helps During Liver Detox
Cranberry juice contains polyphenols and antioxidants that play a crucial role in helping the liver to eliminate toxins from the body. The iron-chelating properties of these compounds make it easier for the liver to detoxify itself and maintain its healthy state.
Overall Health and Wellness
Don't stop at just those benefits – cranberry juice has more to offer! Apart from its refreshing taste, it also supports hormonal health and promotes hair growth. This drink is great for those who want to keep their weight in check, as it's low in calories. Plus, it gives you the hydration you need without packing on excessive sugar or calories. Cranberry juice is loaded with vitamins and minerals, like vitamin C, E, K, and A, along with manganese, and other helpful plant compounds. All these nutrients contribute to your overall health and wellness.
Important Note
It's crucial to keep in mind that drinking cranberry juice can be beneficial for your health, but it's essential to consume it in moderation. Some cranberry juices may contain high amounts of added sugars, so it's better to choose unsweetened or naturally sweetened options whenever feasible. Moreover, if you have any pre-existing health issues or are currently taking medications, it's recommended to seek advice from your healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet.
What to Look for When Shopping for Cranberry Juice
When shopping for cranberry juice, it's crucial to distinguish between unsweetened cranberry juice and cranberry juice cocktail. To ensure that you're getting a healthy cranberry juice that isn't packed with sugar and additives, you should pay attention to the labels. Cranberry juice cocktail typically contains added sugars, such as high fructose corn syrup, and only a small amount of actual cranberry juice. To find a healthier option, you should look for labels that indicate “made with 100 percent cranberry juice".
Cold-Pressed vs. Pasteurized Cranberry Juice
If you're looking for a healthier option, you could try cold-pressed cranberry juice. This type of juice is made by pressing or grinding the cranberries without using heat, which helps to preserve more of the fruit's natural nutrients, enzymes, and antioxidants.
In contrast, pasteurized cranberry juice is heated to kill bacteria and prolong its shelf life. While this process ensures food safety, it can also lead to a loss of some of the beneficial compounds and nutrients found in the juice.
No matter what type of cranberry juice you opt for, be sure to store it properly at the correct temperature.
Potential Side Effects
Cranberry juice may have some side effects that should be taken into account. It is slightly acidic, which could worsen certain conditions such as acid reflux in the short term. Some individuals may experience an odd taste in their mouth or temporary irritation of their gums and lips after consuming cranberry juice. However, for the majority of individuals, including cranberry juice in their diet is safe and healthy as it adds a serving of fruit to their daily intake.
Conclusion
Cranberry juice has numerous health benefits that can help to improve your urinary tract health, boost your immune system, and promote overall well-being. It is a powerful drink that you can opt for anytime you feel like having a refreshing drink. So, enjoy the wonderful benefits of cranberry juice by grabbing a glass of it whenever you want.
It is clear that drinking cranberry juice on a regular basis provides a variety of health benefits. From promoting urinary tract health and reducing the risks of deadly diseases, to promoting healthy hair and preventing tooth decay, cranberry juice is a delicious and easy way to incorporate beneficial nutrients into one’s daily diet.
Not only can cranberry juice help to support overall health and wellbeing, but it can also be enjoyed as an easy way to hydrate throughout the day.
Comment