Cranberry is a fruit from the berry group that is rich in nutrients and low in calories. This fruit comes from the northern part of the United States and other colder areas.

Cranberries are often used to prevent urinary tract infections. Cranberry juice can also prevent urinary tract infections but is less effective at treating them.

Cranberries are also used for neurogenic bladder (bladder disease in which the function of the bladder is lost) and deodorizing urine for people who have problems controlling urination.

Some people also use cranberries to improve circulation of urination, kill germs, promote healing of skin, and combat fever. There are also uses for cranberries for type 2 diabetes, chronic fatigue syndrome, scurvy (vitamin C deficiency), inflammation of the lungs (pleurisy), and cancer.

Until now, there has not been much research on how this herbal plant works. For more information, you better contact a doctor.

However, several studies have shown that cranberries, as well as many other fruits and vegetables, contain salicylic acid, which is an important ingredient in the manufacture of aspirin.

Not only mangoes, cranberries are also processed into dried snacks. Even though hence the name “dried”, cranberries are not fully drained like mangoes. Some water content still can be found within, even though only a small amount.

Talking about the trend, dried fruits have been around for a long time. Historically, the technique of drying fruit has been practiced in the Middle East since 5000 years ago, with the aim of extending the life of a particular fruit.

In ancient times, the process of drying fruit was done by exposing it to direct sunlight. But now, the drying process is carried out using a special drying machine to maintain the distinctive taste and aroma of the fruit.

Even though it has undergone a drying process, it does not mean that the nutrients contained in the fruit are completely lost. The nutrients are still stored properly, so the dried fruit is still nutritious for health.

However, cranberries contain magical phytonutrients that are very effective at killing bacteria. Many studies have shown that eating 1/3 cup of dried cranberries per day can protect against a wide range of bacteria, including drug-resistant strains, urinary tract infections, arterial plaque, and cavities.

Dried cranberries can also strengthen the immune system and have anti-cancer properties. That is why, eating dried cranberries every day can help prevent the risk of developing cancer. In order to fully grasp what kind of benefit you can get from dried cranberries, here’s some of them :

Health Benefits of Dried Cranberries

1. Protects Body from Free Radicals

The first benefit of dried cranberries is to fight free radicals. Free radicals can cause damage to the skin and human organs, and trigger the development of cancer cells. A study in 2011 proved that cranberries have active antioxidants with a lower pH, meaning that they can effectively fight free radicals.

Cranberries contain antioxidants that act as anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory and slow down the development of tumor cells. Based on research, the nutrients in cranberries have a positive effect on prostate, liver, breast, colon and ovarian cancer.

2. Healthier Oral System

Consuming dried cranberries can actually clean your oral system. Well, the benefits of cranberries are also good for treating oral health.

The content in cranberries helps in controlling acid in your mouth and reduces the acid levels that generally stick to your teeth. This will support oral health.

Research at the Center for Oral Biology and Eastman Department of Dentistry at the University of Rochester Medical Center also found that cranberries can prevent cavities, tooth decay, gum disease and oral cancer.

3. Increases  Immunity

Just like aloe vera juice, dried cranberries can also make you healthier. Benefits of dried cranberries is a source for maintaining immunity.

Cranberries contain vitamin C which produces collagen. This content is very important for maintaining your immunity, it also functions for joint health, skin, and the healing process in general.

The next benefits of cranberries are to improve blood circulation and help lower blood pressure. Smooth blood circulation will also increase energy and cognitive function.

4. Rich of Antioxidants

Research has shown that the phenol content, which is one type of antioxidant in cranberries, is the highest antioxidant content compared to 20 similar types of fruit.

This content has the potential for various health conditions, a list of other cranberry benefits like preventing liver disease, maintaining eye health, and lowering blood pressure.

5. Treating Infection

Consuming dried cranberries can help you to treat infection. A study in 2011 found that cranberries can inhibit the development of seven bacteria to fight viruses that cause food poisoning, but research is still being developed.

The most popular benefits of cranberries are for treating urinary tract infections. Cranberries contain antioxidant proanthocyanidins which play a role in preventing infection-causing bacteria from sticking to the urinary wall.

A study at the Texas A&M Center for Health Sciences School of Medicine in Houston revealed a partial answer that cranberries need very high concentrations of the antioxidant proanthocyanidins to prevent infection in the urinary tract walls.

However, consumption of cranberries is not recommended for people who have oliguria (lack of urine production), anuria, or are too sensitive to this herb. Do not use cranberries as a substitute for antibiotic therapy if there is increased urination frequency, difficulty urinating, and a burning sensation when urinating.

If you have kidney stones, avoid using cranberry extract or drinking too much cranberry juice.