Cranberries were originally used by the natives in North American for food and medicine. These berries, which come from low growing vines, contain proanthocyanidins that provide antioxidant activity and can help prevent damage from free radicals. They are also a rich source of vitamin C, fiber and potassium. While no medical data shows cranberry juice is effective against disorders specifically suffered by women, the data does shows how it can benefit both men and women.
Prevents Urinary Tract Infections
According to MayoClinic.Com, urinary tract infections occur more often with women versus men. The infection can occur in any part of the urinary system though, it is most commonly found in the bladder or the urethra. Originally, it was believed that cranberry juice would treat urinary tract infections, but now, research shows that it has preventative benefits. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, drinking cranberry juice can prevent E.coli from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract and prevent infections from occurring.
Prevents Ulcers
The University of Maryland Medical Center mentions preliminary research that is showing cranberry and cranberry juice can prevent peptic ulcers. Cranberries contain a component that prevents Helicobacter pylori bacteria from attaching to human gastric mucus. Helicobacter pylori bacteria is believed to be the main cause of peptic ulcers.
Whole Body Health
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, cranberries contain flavenoids, which are antioxidants, that may relax blood vessels, lower LDL cholesterol and help to prevent heart disease. It also states that cranberries have shown an ability to slow the growth of cancer cells. The Cranberry Institute mentions an unpublished research project by James Joseph, Ph.D, and Barbara Shukitt-Hale Ph.D, where preliminary results show that cranberries may help protect the brain from neurological damage due to aging. The National Institute on aging is also funding research on cranberries effect on its anti-aging abilities. Cranberries may also help prevent oral bacteria from adhering to teeth and gums, but the juice is generally sweetened to make it palatable and therefore should not be used for this purpose.
Vitamin A is needed to produce and maintain epithelial cells – protective linings of the lungs, gastrointestinal tract, urinary tract and other organs.
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