Experts share how these tart fruits can help prevent urinary tract infections, heart disease and more.
In turn, theyre shown to benefit urinary, gut, immune and oral health.
In this article, learn about the health benefits, nutrition and safety considerations for eating cranberries.
Photo:Image: Getty, Design: EatingWell
One of the most popular uses of cranberries or cranberry juice ispreventing UTIs.
Cranberries are rich in antioxidants such as polyphenols, anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins.
For these potential benefits, choose 100% cranberry juice without added sugars.
Also, avoid using cranberries to treat a UTI; see your doctor for diagnosis and proper treatment.
This could help stave off digestive disorders.
Plus, fresh and dried cranberries providefiber, which is one of the most important nutrients for gut health.
It supports a healthy gut microbiome and helps you stay regular.
It promotes wound healing and collagen synthesis, which creates a barrier against pathogens.
Cranberries are generally safe to eat, although some people should be careful about their cranberry intake.
Thats because cranberries are agood source of vitamin K, which impacts blood clotting.
May Cause Diarrhea
If you eat too many cranberry products, you may experience diarrhea.
This is especially true for young children.To prevent this, increase your cranberry intake slowly.
To ensure your smoothie isnt too tart, balance the cranberries with a sweet fruit like peaches or apples.
For example, try thisCranberry-Apple Smoothie, which balances tart cranberries with sweet apple.
In a Sauce
Cranberries go great in sauces like salsa, chutney or relish.
you’re free to use either fresh or frozen cranberries in baked goods.
Note that dried cranberries often have added sugars.
Choose unsweetened varieties if youre adding other sweeteners to the dish.
For a delicious dessert, make theseCranberry-Lemon Cheesecake Bars.
In a Salad
Dried cranberries are a tasty addition to many salads.
They add a hint of sweetness and tang that complement many greens.
For example, thisKale Salad with Cranberriesis one easy way to add cranberries to your day.
Cranberries are full of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fiber that promote health.
They may help prevent bacteria from sticking to your urinary tract, support oral health and prevent chronic disease.
Cranberries are a good source of fiber, which helps you stay regular.
Their antioxidant content may help counter inflammation and promote the growth of healthy bacteria, supporting overall gut health.
However, eating too many cranberries could cause diarrhea, especially for young children.
The Bottom Line
Cranberries are nutrient-dense fruit with many health benefits.
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Shakoor H, Feehan J, Apostolopoulos V, et al.Immunomodulatory Effects of Dietary Polyphenols.Nutrients.
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