Press ReleaseThe Virtuous CranberryDec 12th 2005
This article is taken in part from, If the extent of your cranberry consumption consists of Cranberry sauce at Thanksgiving and the very occasional splash of cranberry juice in a cosmopolitan, it may be time for a menu makeover. Current scientific research is pointing to some stellar attributes of this member of the berry family. At a recent conference on the health benefits of cranberries, scientists presented accumulating research on these berries that grow in bogs in various provinces in Canada. Some of the newfound perks include protection against other microbes that may cause such adverse health effects as ulcers and tooth decay. Further investigations finally led to researchers from Rutgers University isolating the active components in cranberries - proanthocyanidins - that were responsible for maintaining urinary tract health. Further testing showed cranberry proanthocyanidins contain a unique structural feature that may account for the microbial anti-adhesion property. Researchers have also assessed various cranberry products and determined what amounts are needed to maintain the anti-adhesion effects over time. One of the presenters at the conference, Professor Amy B. Howell, a research scientist at Rutgers University, has focused on the benefits of cranberries for several years. Her research shows that to help maintain a healthy urinary tract, consuming cranberries twice a day in small doses rather than one large serving daily is more beneficial. Cranberries also exhibit the same action with H. pylori, the microbe now known to be a major culprit in the development of stomach ulcers. Tooth decay is another area under investigation as they are caused by bacteria adhering to cell surfaces on teeth, which create plaque. Again, cranberries are coming up smelling like roses. In the area of antioxidants, cranberries, like other berries, are top-notch performers. The antioxidants contained in berries may offer heart health benefits, anti-cancer action and perks for brain functioning. Scientist at the Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging at Tufts University who have looked at the promising effects of blueberries on cognitive function have been finding similar results with cranberries. Putting cranberries on the menu regularly can be an easy task indeed. They're extremely versatile, both for those seeking gourmet fare or for those who prefer the plainest of options. As everyday fare, cranberries can be used fresh, in season, frozen, dried and in beverage form.
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