Natural Medicines & Remedies: Cranberries
Yesterday I was in Whole Foods. I glanced across the produce section and out of the corner of my eye noticed a flash of ruby red. I looked down and say a small box of locally, grown, organic cranberries. I thought they would be great in a fall sauce or just a good little snack to pick me up (they are quite sour, but good, raw).
When I got home, remembered an old wives tale saying that cranberries are good for you. I did a little research and turns out those old wives are right… 
According to research by Rutgers University cranberries are are among the top foods with proven health benefits.
* Cranberries are full of antioxidants that fight cell damage.
* A compound found in cranberries called proanthocyanidine, prevents plaque formation on teeth. Now toothpastes and mouthwashes containing this cranberry compound are being developed to prevent periodontal diseases.
* Drinking cranberry juice increases good cholesterol and decreases bad cholesterol.
* Cranberries may prevent tumors from growing rapidly or starting in the first place.
* Also compounds in cranberries kill a bacteria associated with urinary tract infections.
To get more cranberries in your diet:
- eat them plain
- drink cranberry juice
- add dried cranberries to breads and muffins
- blend them in a smoothie
- cut them in half and add to salad
- mash them up with herbs and olive oil for a vinegrette
If you have anymore ideas on how to use cranberries or recipes. Let me know in the comments section.
Gluten Free Sweet Potato Fries & Garlic Aïoli
