Cranberries are small, red berries with a sour taste and are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C. They are often used to maintain health, as they can help boost immunity and protect against urinary tract infections. Cranberries are often consumed dried or in juice form.
The benefits of cranberries are worth talking about because they are a natural way to boost health thanks to their high content of antioxidants, vitamins and dietary fibre. Cranberries help fight oxidative stress, boost immunity and may protect against urinary tract infections. The benefits of these berries are widely recognised and they are often referred to as a "superfood".
For those who want to conveniently incorporate cranberries into their daily diet, cranberry powder should be tried. It is a concentrated, 100% natural product, with one teaspoon equivalent to 100 g of fresh berries. Cranberry powder can be used in smoothies, yoghurts or desserts, providing a natural taste and valuable nutrients.
Cranberry powder (50-100 g) is a natural and nutritious product for everyday use. Made from 100% dried and ground cranberries grown in Lithuania, this powder is equivalent to 100g of fresh berries in just one teaspoon. It is the perfect choice for those who want to enrich their diet naturally, without added sugar or additives. The powder is also suitable for desserts or drinks, giving a pink colour and a mild cranberry flavour.
Forest Cranberry Powder (50-100 g) is an alternative to traditional cranberries with a subtle forest flavour. Made from hand-picked berries gathered in the forest, they are processed to preserve all the nutrients. The low-temperature production method helps to preserve the quality and natural characteristics.
Both types of these powders are vegan, suitable for raw eaters, gluten and added sugar free - a healthy and versatile way to enrich your diet.
The health benefits of cranberries, possible side effects, interactions with medicines, appropriate methods of consumption and complementary foods that increase their effectiveness are discussed later in this article.
Cranberries may have health benefits, including combating oxidative stress, due to their high content of antioxidants, especially vitamin C and flavonoids. They can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and inhibit bacterial adhesion to the urinary tract, which may reduce the incidence of urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Cranberries can also support cardiovascular health by improving cholesterol levels and lowering blood pressure, thus contributing to overall heart health. Their anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce inflammation and promote healthy digestion.
Cranberries can strengthen the immune system, making them a good choice during cold and flu season. Due to their low calorie and high fibre content, cranberries can be useful for weight management by promoting satiety while providing important nutrients.
Possible side effects of cranberries: gastrointestinal discomfort, interaction with anticoagulants, allergic reactions.
Despite its many health benefits, cranberries can cause gastrointestinal discomfort due to their high acidity and sugar content, which can manifest itself in symptoms such as stomach upset, diarrhoea and gas.
Persons taking certain medications, especially anticoagulants such as warfarin, should be careful as cranberries can interact with these drugs and increase the risk of bleeding.
Persons taking such medications should consult their doctor before including large quantities of cranberries in their diet.
Another consideration is the possible development of allergic reactions. Although rare, some people may experience symptoms such as hives, swelling or respiratory problems after consuming cranberries.
As with any food, moderation is the key to avoiding unwanted effects and at the same time reaping the health benefits of cranberries.
1 cup (approximately 100 g) of cranberries contains only 49 calories.
Macronutrients per serving:
Cranberries can be a good source of dietary fibre, vitamin C and various minerals.
Foods that may contain cranberries:
When incorporating cranberries into your diet, consider the following consumption and dosage recommendations to maximise the health benefits:
Always consult your doctor, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medication, to ensure that cranberries fit in with your diet.
One effective combination is cranberries with probiotics such as yoghurt or kefir, which can support gut health by improving the absorption of the beneficial compounds in cranberries.
Combining cranberries with omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in flaxseeds or walnuts, can improve cardiovascular health. The anti-inflammatory properties of cranberries and omega-3s can have a synergistic effect on heart health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Turmeric, whose active ingredient is curcumin, may enhance the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of cranberries. Enjoying cranberries and turmeric together may enhance their health benefits, especially in reducing inflammation.
Combining cranberries with citrus fruits such as oranges or grapefruit can increase the intake of vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and skin health .
Cranberries can help with and prevent urinary tract infections.
The active compounds in cranberries, especially proanthocyanidins, can inhibit bacteria from adhering to the lining of the urinary tract.
Although some studies suggest a possible benefit in reducing the recurrence of urinary tract infections, more research is needed to draw definitive conclusions.
It is advisable to consult a physician for appropriate prevention and treatment strategies.
Cranberries are generally considered safe for pregnant and breastfeeding women when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
They may have nutritional benefits, including vitamins and antioxidants.
However, excessive intake, especially in supplement form, may present risks such as gastrointestinal upset or possible interactions with certain drugs.
For these groups, it is advisable to consult a doctor before increasing cranberry intake significantly or taking cranberry supplements.
Yes, you can freeze cranberries for later use. Freezing is an effective way to preserve their freshness and nutritional value.