Cranberries Can Kill Bacteria Linked to Peptic Ulcers (plus other health benefits)

Cranberries are a delicious little red berry with huge health benefits, and if you’re not consuming cranberries right now, you should be!

This fruit is high in antioxidants and carries anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies have evenv shown that cranberries are great cancer prevention fruits!

Packed with vitamins B6, C, K, and E, and high in iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium and zinc, you can get all of your multivitamins from these tiny berries and skip the harmful pills!

1. PREVENTS AND CURES URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS (UTIS)

If you are prone to recurrent urinary tract infections (as some women are), then you need be drinking cranberry juice. Cranberry juice is highly effective at preventing UTIs and will even help ward off the infection faster if you have one.

Their anti-adherence properties prevent fimbriated and E.coli bacteria from sticking to cells in the urinary tract.

Simply drink one glass of unsweetened cranberry daily to kill any unwanted bacteria. Hint: If unsweetened cranberry juice isn’t to your taste, try watering it down with half a glass of water to cut the tanginess.

2. REDUCES RISK OF CANCER

The Anticancer Agents in Medicinal Chemistry journal concluded that cranberries can be used as a natural anticancer agent. They are especially effective at preventing liver, prostate, breast, ovarian, colon, and oral cancer.

3. BOOSTS IMMUNITY

High vitamin C content makes cranberries an excellent source at promoting a healthy immune system.

4. ORAL HEALTH

Cranberries can prevent dental problems such as gum disease, cavities, gingivitis, and plaque.

The Canadian Dental Association published a study on the potential anti-caries agents in cranberries that help stop the formation of bacteria on gums and teeth.

5. STRENGTHENS BONES

Calcium keeps bones strong and will help reduce the risk of osteoporosis and cranberries are an excellent source of calcium.

6. IMPROVES HEART HEALTH

Cranberries lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including stroke and heart attacks.

The Nutrition Reviews journal published a study proving cranberries to be a rich source of flavonols and fiber that improve cardiovascular health.

Cranberries contain phytochemicals that can also reduce blood pressure and increase resistance to LDL (“bad” cholesterol).

7. COMBATS AGING

Cranberries have an amazing amount of antioxidants that aid in reducing the signs of aging. They will also rid the body of free radicals that speed up aging.

This fruit can also decrease brain cell degeneration resulting in delayed age-related memory loss and motor function.

8. PREVENTS PEPTIC ULCERS

Peptic ulcers are open sores in the stomach’s lining or the esophagus or duodenum. They are caused by a certain bacteria that cranberries can suppress according to a 2005 study.

Cranberries also have natural antibacterial properties that reduce the risk of stomach ulcers.

9. HELPS DIGESTION

A high-fiber diet lowers risk for indigestion and gastrointestinal diseases. Good thing cranberries have a ton of fiber!

10. SKIN HEALTH

Fruit face masks are awesome for keeping a healthy, glowing complexion, and cranberries’ enzymes work great to exfoliate dead skin. Cranberry juice is also an excellent toner for oily skin.