What are the benefits of cranberries: uses and contraindications. Cranberry juice: benefits and harm to the human body, composition and recipes The effect of cranberries on the body

Well known to everyone, sourberry, a relative of lingonberry, grows in different parts of the world, usually in swampy areas. There are many varieties of this berry: all of them are edible and are a source of vitamins and other useful substances, a favorite treat for people and an indispensable ingredient in cooking.

Calories, vitamins and minerals

Cranberries are a low-calorie product, but the number of calories in fresh and dried berries varies greatly (which is understandable, because when dried, moisture is lost from the fruit, which is why they lose weight many times over).

So, if 100 g of fresh berries contains only 25 Kcal, then the same mass of dried product accounts for more than 300 Kcal. This is worth remembering for those who, planning to lose weight, nibble on dried cranberries all day long.

Proteins, fats and carbohydrates in cranberries are contained in the ratio 0,5: 0,2: 3,7.

A distinctive feature of the composition of cranberries is the large amount pectins. In addition, berries contain sugars, anthocyanins, catechins, betaine, organic acids - citric, malic, oxalic, ursolic, chlorogenic, succinic, oleander and others.

Did you know? The sour taste is the calling card of cranberries. Translated from Greek, its name means nothing more than “sour”. Some peoples associated the shape and red color of the fruits of this evergreen shrub with the blood shed by heroes in the fight against the forces of evil.

Main vitamin of cranberry- this is, of course, ascorbic acid. In terms of the amount of vitamin C, these fruits can easily compete with citrus fruits. The berries also contain vitamin E, B vitamins (1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 9), and vitamin K1 – phylloquinone.

The mineral composition includes potassium, phosphorus, calcium, as well as others necessary for living organisms elements- sodium, magnesium, copper, manganese, iron, molybdenum, iodine, zinc. These fruits contain small amounts of nickel, silver, tin, cobalt, chromium, titanium, boron and other “representatives” of the periodic table.

Benefits of cranberries

The beneficial properties of cranberries for the body are determined by its unique composition. So, cranberries:

help improve appetite and, by increasing the production of gastric and pancreatic juice, they activate the digestive system, due to which they are indicated for low acidity and some diseases of the pancreas;
have a beneficial effect on genitourinary system, have a diuretic effect, help inhibit the development of pathogenic bacteria, therefore they are indicated for renal disorders;
endowed with the property stop inflammatory processes and even prevent the development of malignant tumors (especially in the intestines, mammary glands and prostate);
balance cholesterol levels in the blood, have a beneficial effect on blood vessels, stimulate the heart, relieve headaches, and are a good prevention of atherosclerosis and strokes;
refresh and invigorate, quench thirst and have antipyretic properties, due to which they are indicated for respiratory viral diseases and influenza;
kill harmful flora in the body, have an anthelmintic effect (experiments show that even spoiled minced meat, to which cranberry concentrate was added, subsequently turned out to be edible and did not cause gastric disorders).

Cranberry juice will bring great benefit for urinary tract infections, gastritis, cardiovascular diseases, colds, coughs and even inflammation of the oral cavity.

This healing elixir is also endowed with the ability to disinfect wounds and heal burns, as well as increase the effectiveness of antibiotics.

Important! Frozen cranberries contain much less ascorbic acid than fresh ones, but they are quite capable of helping to cope with spring vitamin deficiency and strengthen the immune system during this period.

Cranberries during pregnancy

A separate topic is the role of cranberries in the lives of expectant mothers. As you know, any viral and other acute diseases during pregnancy are especially dangerous, and taking antibiotics during this period can be no less harmful than the infection itself.

On the other hand, the female body experiences additional stress during pregnancy and is therefore especially susceptible to infection by viruses. Further, the kidneys and genitourinary organs are those body systems that are especially often affected during pregnancy.
Cranberry with its bactericidal, anti-inflammatory properties, which manifest themselves both in the general effect on the body and, in particular, in relation to the genitourinary system - during pregnancy simply irreplaceable!

But that's not all. Eating cranberries will help the expectant mother get rid of varicose veins that often occur during this period, since this berry has a very beneficial effect on the functioning of blood vessels. This same property of cranberries ensures normalization of blood circulation in the placenta area, and, therefore, will help the fetus develop normally.

Normalization of metabolic processes, assistance in assimilation of what the body needs minerals- another argument in favor of the fact that pregnant women not only can, but should, consume cranberries, because there is no reason to doubt or worry about this.

Medicinal recipes from cranberries

Important! Never add honey to hot drinks - this not only kills the beneficial properties of the product, but also turns it into poison! Place honey in warm cranberry infusion, and if you prefer to drink it hot, eat honey as a bite.

You can use cranberries already ground with sugar as a “leaf”, and you can also eat the berry in its pure form if its sour taste doesn’t bother you.

For a cold

Cranberry for colds, flu and respiratory infections accompanied by fever does not just give the body a shock dose of what it needs in this condition vitamin C, but also has a diaphoretic effect and prevents dehydration, which is especially dangerous at elevated body temperatures.
It is recommended to use the fruits for treatment in these ways:

pour crushed cranberries with hot water and insist, as indicated in the previous section, drink in large quantities throughout the day;
prepare cranberry juice: grind the fruits in a blender, discard on cheesecloth, squeeze out the juice. Pour hot water over the cake, bring to a boil and cool. Then strain and mix with juice. Add sugar or honey if desired;
Pure cranberry juice with honey is also an excellent cold remedy.

For sore throat

Cranberry juice prepared in the manner described above helps very well with sore throats.

Did you know? Sore throat is a bacterial disease: it is caused by streptococci and other microbes that enter the mucous membrane of the throat. That is why, unlike the flu and other viral infections, a sore throat does not go away on its own, and its treatment requires taking antibiotics prescribed by a doctor. Unfortunately, cranberries alone will not solve the problem with a sore throat.

Still, cranberry will come in very handy for this unpleasant disease, because it has the ability to enhance the effect of antibacterial drugs.

For hypertension

Cranberry is also indicated for high blood pressure. How to brew cranberries was described above.
In addition, it will help lower blood pressure drinking cranberry juice- pure or mixed with the same amount of freshly squeezed red beet juice.

Based on cranberries, there are also more complex recipes used for hypertension.

Traditional medicine gives such a recommendation: you need to beat a kilogram of ice cream or fresh berries with a blender with a glass, add half a liter to the mixture and drink one tablespoon three times a day.

Did you know? If you squeezed juice from fresh cranberries, do not throw away the remaining pulp, as it is a good way to dilate blood vessels and normalize the functioning of your heart. You can make a compote based on this squeeze, or you can simply chew it as medicine.

For cystitis

Cranberry helps a lot with the symptoms of such an unpleasant and painful condition as cystitis.

The secret is that it has the property of pushing out pathogenic microbes from the walls of the bladder and, thus, stopping the inflammatory process. The best way to treat is cranberry juice, just squeezed: a glass half an hour before meals twice a day - and you're fine!

For joint diseases

For relief of joint pain, cranberries are taken in a prescription similar to those used to treat hypertension.

Mix freshly squeezed cranberry and garlic juice in the ratio 5: 2, leave for 24 hours, stirring from time to time.

Add honey (twice the volume of berries), mix again and take a teaspoon three times a day 15 minutes before meals.

How to use it in cosmetology

Cosmetology did not ignore such a useful product. It is not surprising, because the sour berry has a beneficial effect on the entire body.
From the effect of cranberry, the skin becomes more elastic and toned, acquires youth, velvety and a pleasant color. The berry will also help get rid of flaking and dryness, remove unhealthy shine and redness, and even eliminate such an unpleasant phenomenon as acne. Cranberries are very beneficial for hair (especially oily hair).

To prepare cranberry lotion for oily skin, grate the whole lotion, add vodka (250 ml), put it in a dark place and forget about it for a week.

After this period, filter, add a glass of freshly squeezed cranberry juice, 100 ml of boiled water, cooled to room temperature, and a tablespoon of glycerin to the liquid.
Mix all components well. This lotion is used to wipe the skin of the face every day before bed.

Based on red berries you can prepare face mask. Grind the fruits in a blender or pound in a mortar and apply the resulting substance to already cleansed facial skin.

Leave for a quarter of an hour, then carefully rinse with warm water. We repeat the procedure three times a week for a month.

A simpler mask can be made by simply moistening gauze with freshly squeezed cranberry juice and applying it to your face for 15 minutes. Wash off the mask with warm boiled water and apply moisturizer.

Important! If you have acne, increase the exposure time of the mask to an hour, however, in this case, cranberry juice must be mixed with boiled water, gradually increasing the amount of juice in the solution from 1:3 to 1:1.

Cranberries in cooking: what to cook, how to prepare and store

Cranberries are used not only in folk medicine and cosmetology, but also in cooking: thanks to its sour taste, it is applicable not only in desserts and cocktails, but also in salads and main dishes- both meat and fish, including various seafood.

There is no need to talk about all kinds of jams, marmalades, confitures, jellies, fruit drinks, compotes and kvass, liqueurs and liqueurs.

The product as a culinary ingredient can be used fresh, frozen, dried, soaked and even pickled. The berry creates unique compositions in an ensemble with citrus fruits and, and even.

Did you know? Z Preparing and preserving the berries is extremely simple. In addition to the usual freezing and drying, the following option is also suitable: pour clean fruits into sterile jars or even well-washed plastic bottles, fill with boiled water,cooled to room temperature,We seal it carefully - and that’s it! The necessary preservatives are contained in the fruits themselves, so no boiling or special additives are required. However, it is advisable to store such a product in a cellar, refrigerator or other cool place.

- classics of the genre. The berry not only adds a piquant sourness to the product and increases the dose of vitamin C contained in it, but also, being an excellent preservative, helps it to be stored better, preventing fermentation and souring.

The berry can be added to prepared oatmeal, giving the product even greater benefits and enriching the taste.

The baked bird will sparkle with completely unique notes if you serve it with cranberry sauce with. To prepare the sauce, place 0.5 kg of fresh cranberries, two sweet and sour apples cut into slices, half a glass of powdered sugar, a pinch (or stick) of cinnamon and a little water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer until thick. Bon appetit!

Possible contraindications

Like any potent remedy, cranberries can bring not only benefits, but also harm. The red color of the berry indicates that it can cause allergies (in addition, many suffer from ascorbic acid intolerance).

Important! Despite the benefits of the berry, during pregnancy and even during breastfeeding it is better to limit your consumption of cranberries; It is also not recommended to give it to children before they reach the age of three.

For gout and urolithiasis, these berries should be consumed in moderation, but gastritis and ulcers against the background of increased acidity in the acute stage are a direct contraindication for consuming the fruits of this shrub.

To avoid the harmful effects of the product on the walls of the stomach, it is better for such people (even in remission) to consume the berry after a hearty lunch.

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Cranberries grow on a low-growing shrub that is resistant to frost and changing weather conditions. Preferably, the bush is located near swamps and peat bogs. Ripening begins in September. It is this period that ensures that after consumption you pick a berry with a fully formed chemical list of elements. Many people wonder about the benefits and harms of cranberries.

Composition of cranberries

The berry contains a small proportion of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Calorie content of a 100 g serving. is 27 Kcal.

Cranberries are rich in fiber, di- and monosaccharides, water, ash, pectin, organic acids, and dietary fiber.

Regarding elements, phosphorus, tin, molybdenum, sodium, magnesium, potassium, and calcium accumulate in fruits. The berries contain a lot of zinc, barium, iodine, titanium, aluminum, cobalt, boron, copper, silver, chromium, and manganese. Vitamins include niacin, tocopherol, thiamine, folic acid, pyridoxine, ascorbic acid, riboflavin, and vitamin K1.

Cranberries are loved by many for their unique composition. They contain a lot of natural sugar, namely glucose and fructose.

Organic acids include citric, malic, quinic, succinic, oxalic, chlorogenic, and ketoglutaric.

In addition to the above valuable elements, cranberries include catechins, betaine, bioflavonoids, phenolic compounds, leukoanthocyanins and flavonols.

If we talk about the nutritional value of fresh fruits, the indicators allow the use of cranberries in dietary nutrition. Dried berries accumulate much more saccharides, so you should be careful with them.

Benefits of cranberries

Cranberries are used as the main component for medications aimed at combating cancer. The berry has the ability to block blood flow to cancer cells, thereby triggering the self-destruction of the tumor.
The berry is a natural antioxidant that prevents premature aging of tissues, preserving youth. Cranberry stops the effect of free radicals, cleanses the liver and kidneys.
Often cranberry juice is used to treat sore throat and other similar ailments. The fruits have the property of lowering body temperature during fever. Berries also remove mucus from the respiratory tract and cleanse the lungs of smokers.
Flavonoids are responsible for the elasticity of vascular walls. The elements expand the blood channels and provide the blood with oxygen. As a result, prevention of thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, atherosclerosis, varicose veins and other ailments of this type is carried out.
Cranberry is one of the best natural multivitamin complexes. When taken systematically, the condition of hair and skin improves, and the activity of all internal organs is normalized. Cranberries are useful to eat for categories of people who have naturally low immunity.
Fruits help increase appetite. As a result, metabolism and digestibility of food are improved, gastrointestinal diseases are prevented, and stools are stabilized. Cranberry gently cleanses the intestines of stagnation.
The diuretic properties allow the berry to be used by people who suffer from excessive swelling of the limbs and tissues of internal organs. Cranberries remove excess water and prevent salts from retaining liquid. Thanks to this, the heaviness in the legs goes away.
The beneficial qualities of the berry apply to those who have a tendency to form blood clots and increase cholesterol in the blood. Cranberries help prevent these ailments.
The fruits are indispensable for fever, respiratory diseases, and colds. Bactericidal and anti-inflammatory properties will quickly cure the disease and relieve fever. Also, the immune system is strengthened “on all fronts.”
It is useful to take cranberries together with antibiotics to enhance the effect of the medications. Just consult your doctor before doing this. The berry fights frequent migraines, headaches, heartburn, and general malaise.
It is useful to consume grated cranberries with honey or granulated sugar to increase brain performance and physical endurance. These qualities are valued by categories of people who work with their heads. The berry is also recommended for consumption by athletes.

To cleanse the intestines. Cranberries are valued for their ability to gently cleanse the intestinal tract of stagnation. In addition, after taking the product, all the work of the internal organ is normalized, and the digestibility of food improves. Mix cranberry juice with beet juice in equal proportions. Take 3-5 sips 3 times a day. Most often, constipation (including chronic) and vascular spasms are treated with a similar composition.
For a cold. To cure colds or inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, combine aloe vera juice with cranberry juice, lemon juice, sugar, honey and vodka. Measure each ingredient in equal quantities, combine and stir. Take 3 times a day, 2 tablespoons. Keep refrigerated.
To restore strength. It is useful to consume cranberry juice diluted with water in equal quantities. The drink is especially suitable for people who work a lot physically, lead an active lifestyle, and play sports. A diluted drug will enrich brain cells with oxygen, quickly replenish the lack of strength, and give vigor.
For hypertension. If you suffer from high blood pressure, prepare the following remedy. Mix 500 gr. cranberries with 130 gr. sugar, add 250 ml. filtered water. Place the raw materials in a saucepan on the stove and cook for 8 minutes. Strain, cool, dilute with water 50-50. Drink a whole glass (250-300 ml.) 1-2 times a day.
From diabetes. To normalize the course of the disease and alleviate the condition, it is necessary to maintain blood glucose levels at the correct level. Grind a handful of cranberries, pour in 250 ml. hot (but not boiling!) water, leave for an hour. Take 50 ml of the drug every day. twice a day.
For the prevention of the genitourinary system. The berry is useful for the prevention of diseases of the reproductive and urinary system in women and men. In order to increase metabolism and protect internal organs from infections, take 100 ml. cranberry juice daily, dividing the indicated volume into 3 times.
For diarrhea. If you regularly suffer from diarrhea or want to routinely normalize your stool, use a mixture of berries and cranberry leaves. Take an equal amount of ingredients, pour 500 ml. hot ode. Place the mixture on the stove and cook for 6 minutes after boiling. Strain, cool, take 130 ml. 4 times a day.

Benefits of cranberries for pregnant women

It is recommended to consume the fruits, adhering to the daily intake. The health of the woman and baby will improve significantly, intrauterine development will be more harmonious. Many girls face problems with the genitourinary system while carrying a child.
Illnesses most often occur against the background of a weakened immune system and hormonal dysfunction. Progesterone is secreted in the female body. This hormone promotes the development of bacteria in the urinary tract. To cope with trouble, you need to drink cranberry juice.
The drink is a powerful antibacterial compound. The juice suppresses the spread and further development of microflora of harmful microbes. The main feature of the product is that it is not addictive, unlike medications. Therefore, the drink is completely safe during pregnancy.
Often, girls during this crucial period are faced with actively developing caries and inflammation of the gums. In this case, you are allowed to eat only cranberries. The berries have an antibacterial effect, disinfecting the oral cavity and eliminating the sources of problems. The composition has proven itself in the fight against streptococci.
Cranberries are rich in flavonoids; enzymes are actively involved in the complete absorption of ascorbic acid. As a result, the elasticity of blood vessels increases significantly, and the blood is cleansed of harmful compounds. In addition, the presence of antioxidants has a positive effect on the activity of the central nervous system, reducing the risk of postpartum depression.
Cranberry helps girls fight dropsy and swelling during pregnancy. Such troubles arise due to the body’s inability to respond to any changes. The fruits help a woman adapt to almost any hormonal changes. The daily norm for pregnant girls of cranberry juice or juice is about 2 liters.
Cranberries are good at preventing the development of cystitis and kidney pathologies during pregnancy. In this case, it is recommended to start the morning with a glass of natural fruit drink. The drink is prescribed as a prophylactic to avoid complications due to fetal development. The composition activates placental blood circulation.

Studies have shown that cranberries are beneficial for children's bodies. The fruits significantly increase the child’s appetite and strengthen the functions of the protective shell. Regular consumption of berries relieves the child's body from a dry, prolonged cough.
To prevent colds, a product based on cranberries and honey is used. A healthy treat relieves a child of the symptoms of the disease, saturates the body with valuable microelements and fights constipation.
Children are allowed to give cranberries in any form. Berries can be added to cereals, salads, desserts and tea. No less healthy jelly, compotes, juices, infusions and fruit drinks are prepared from the fruits. It is recommended to give only non-concentrated drinks to children under 3 years of age.

Harm of cranberries

Cranberries will bring invaluable benefits to a person if the recommendations are followed and there are no contraindications. The fruits are prohibited from being consumed in any form if you have gastritis or acute liver diseases. Cranberries are highly acidic.
Natural cranberry juice is contraindicated for ulcers of any stage. People who have weakened tooth enamel should be more careful. If you consume berries excessively, it does not bode well.
Remember, no matter how beneficial the product is, you should always follow the recommended daily intake. If you have chronic illnesses, consult a specialist before consuming cranberries.

Cranberries are rightfully considered a unique berry, which can significantly improve human health and relieve a list of ailments. Abuse of the product can lead to dire consequences. Introduce berries into your daily diet gradually, carefully monitor your body’s reaction.

Video: healing properties of cranberries

An evergreen creeping shrub that grows primarily in marshy areas, the cranberry produces dark red fruit.

Cranberries ripen in April-October.

The berries are quite difficult to pick.

Ruby balls scatter abundantly in the place where the plant grows.

The beneficial properties of cranberries allow them to be used year-round as jelly, jam, compotes, etc.

Composition, calorie content and use of cranberries

The spherical berry is rich in fiber, pectin, and organic acids. Cranberries are beneficial for the body due to their vitamin composition. It contains vitamins A, B, C, K.

In addition, cranberries contain microelements necessary for the normal functioning of the human body: potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, phosphorus, iron, iodine, etc.

The calorie content of cranberries is low and amounts to 27 kcal per 100 G product.

Cranberry is a tasty and healthy berry., which has found its use not only in cooking, but also as a remedy.

1. For mental or heavy physical work, drink a cranberry drink, which is prepared from berries, rose hips and honey.

2. Cranberry is beneficial for the body due to its ability to cleanse toxins, normalize intestinal function.

For this they use mixture of cranberry and beet juices(in equal proportions). Drink the drink three times a day, several sips.

The juice mixture is used for persistent constipation, hypertension, and cerebral vascular spasms.

3. Helps cure colds or inflammation of the upper respiratory tract cranberry juice with aloe juice.

In addition to this composition, they use healing balm, consisting of cranberries, lemon juice, onions, aloe, beets with the addition of sugar, honey, alcohol (all in equal quantities).

The medicinal mixture is stored in the refrigerator. Use it three times a day, just a couple of large spoons.

4. Athletes use cranberry juice after intense training. However, they do not drink it in its pure form, but dilute it with water. Compound enriches the brain with oxygen, relieves vascular spasms, restores strength.

5. Cranberries are good for health and are an excellent means of preventing diseases of the genitourinary system. Daily consumption of small amounts of cranberry juice (100 ml three times a day) normalizes metabolism and protects the body from infections.

6. Cranberry widely used by diabetics. To maintain a stable state, you need to prepare a drink every day from 2-3 tablespoons of berries crushed into puree, poured with a glass of hot water (not boiling water!). The composition is taken several times a day, 2 large spoons.

7. Daily consumption (2-3 times a day) of cranberry juice, a quarter glass, helps effectively for some inflammatory gynecological processes.

8. Thanks to the beneficial properties of cranberries, they are used for tuberculosis. The disease is treated with cranberry juice with the addition of honey. In addition, you can use berries ground with liquid honey, adding a little flaxseed oil to the composition.

9. For problems with blood pressure, vascular diseases, as well as for gastritis, colitis, metabolic disorders, use a healing composition, which is prepared as follows: pour boiling water in a thermos (1 glass) over a spoonful of plant leaves and berries (10 g). The composition is infused for 4 hours, filtered, diluted with boiled water and drunk during the day in three doses.

10. Cranberries are good for the body suffering from diarrhea. In this case, mix the berries and leaves of the plant (in equal proportions). Then 2 large spoons of the mixture are poured with water (2 cups). It is important that it is not boiling water. Just using hot water is enough. The composition is placed on the stove for cooking. After 10 minutes, remove the container with the healing decoction, cool, and filter. Drink half a glass at least 4 times a day.

11. Cranberries are also used as an antiseptic. An infusion of 1 spoon of berries and a glass of boiling water is used for gargling and washing open wounds.

12. The berry is indispensable for shortness of breath. The disease can be easily treated if you drink cranberry infusion (1 spoon of berries per glass of boiling water) with the addition of honey.

13. A drink that can be prepared simply can help get rid of high blood pressure: mash the berries (2 cups), add sugar (half a cup) and water (1 cup).

The composition is placed on the stove and is not cooked, but only brought to a boil. Then filter and dilute with water. Drink as a tasty and healthy drink.

14. Cranberries are good for your health during colds. In this case, drink hot cranberry tea. First, the berries are lightly crushed with a spoon, then they are covered with sugar and hot tea (green or black) is poured. The drink saturates the body with vitamins, quenches thirst, relieves fatigue, and gives vital energy.

15. For radiation sickness and some inflammatory diseases, cranberry juice with the addition of honey is used as an additional therapy. The medicine is taken in courses 1 or 2 times a year. The first week they drink the healing composition half a glass 3 times a day, the second - the same amount, but 2 times a day, the third - half a glass only 1 time a day.

16. Cranberry juice is used as a natural mild antipyretic for fever.

17. A composition of cranberry and beet juices with the addition of honey and vodka (in equal proportions) helps to get rid of sore throat and other inflammatory diseases of the throat. The mixture is infused in a dark place for 3 days, after which you drink a large spoon before meals.

18. The beneficial properties of cranberries make them irreplaceable for bedsores. The composition, which has an antiseptic and drying effect, is prepared from freshly squeezed cranberry juice (20 ml), lanolin (40 g), petroleum jelly (40 g).

19. Cranberries are widely used in cosmetology. It is used to make therapeutic masks. The berries are crushed into a paste and applied to the skin of the face, avoiding the area around the eyes. Leave the mask on for 15 minutes, then wash off with water.

20. Cranberries are also used for preparing dishes and confectionery. It is added to sauerkraut, sauces, and used as a seasoning for meat dishes.

Extremely tasty and healthy cranberry kvass. It is prepared from cranberries (1 kg), sugar (1 kg), yeast (25 g), water (9 l). To begin with, wash the berries, then grind them through a colander, add water and sugar. Everything is put on fire and boiled, after which it is cooled and filtered. Yeast is diluted separately with warm water and combined with the drink.

The composition is mixed and placed in a warm place to infuse (for 24 hours). Then everything is poured into a clean container, raisins are added and stored in the refrigerator. In a couple of days, the healing kvass is ready!

Cranberries: what are the benefits for the body?

Cranberry is a useful berry for the prevention and treatment of colds. But not only. The list of its valuable properties is very long:

It is able to resist the creation and spread of cancer.

Cranberries contain antioxidants that fight signs of aging.

Cranberry is an excellent remedy for treating sore throat.

Due to the high content of flavonoids, cranberries help improve vascular elasticity.

Berry is the best multivitamin. Moreover, it is 100% natural.

Cranberry improves appetite, fights constipation, enhances the production of gastric juice, and has bactericidal and diuretic properties.

Cranberries are beneficial for health due to their ability to lower cholesterol levels and prevent the formation of plaques and blood clots in blood vessels.

It is indispensable for colds, fever, and upper respiratory tract diseases.

Cranberry relieves headaches and heartburn. It can enhance the effect of antibiotics.

Berries are a real storehouse of biologically active substances and mineral salts.

Cranberries: what are the health benefits?

Cranberry is certainly useful, but it also has its contraindications. Berries are prohibited for consumption in case of gastritis with high acidity, liver diseases (in acute form).

Cranberry undesirable for ulcers(especially juice in its pure form), as well as for weak tooth enamel.

If you eat cranberries thoughtlessly, they are more likely to do harm than good. Even the most valuable product should be used with caution.

If you have existing chronic diseases, you should consult a doctor about using the miracle berry.

Cranberries for children: good or bad?

Cranberries are good for children's bodies. It improves appetite and strengthens defenses. The berry helps get rid of a persistent dry cough. When combined with honey or sugar, cranberries are good for colds and flu. A healthy and tasty medicine fills the child’s body with vitamins and microelements, improves digestion, and relieves constipation.

Children are given cranberries in any form. You can sprinkle it on your usual dishes or make juice, fruit drink, infusion, or jelly from the berries.

It is best to give cranberries to very young children in the form of compote and jelly. In addition, cranberry candies are suitable for babies under one year old, which are prepared from 1 cup of powdered sugar, two egg whites, a kilogram of cranberries and half a glass of freshly squeezed lemon juice.

To begin, wash the berries, dry them, then beat the powder with the whites, add lemon juice and mix. After this, a separate berry (it is first dipped in boiling water) is dipped in the composition, dried and placed in a jar for storage.

Cranberries are indispensable for children's colds and sore throats, itching and eczema. In the latter case, lubricate the sore spots with a mixture of berry juice and Vaseline.

Cranberries are allowed (in the absence of a tendency to allergies) for children from 6 months. Children under 2 years old are given only heat-treated berries, and older children can be given cranberries in any form.

The tasty and healthy berry has many beneficial properties. The low calorie content of cranberries makes it possible to use it in various diets.

Kissels and compotes, jams and mousses, an addition to ice cream and pie - cranberries are good in any quality for both adults and children.

Cranberry (craneberry)- These are the sour berries of a low-growing plant that grows in marshy areas. These berries are not just edible, they are very useful due to the vitamins, microelements and other biologically active substances they contain. Therefore, cranberries are considered the best natural tonic for various diseases. Let's take a closer look at the beneficial properties of cranberries for the body. What provides the therapeutic effect of berries, and how best to take this natural medicine.

Compound

The wide range of beneficial properties of cranberries is determined by its rich vitamin composition and biologically active substances. The berries of the plant contain acids, sugars, flavonoids, pectins and microelements.

Vitamins

vitamin C (more than in citrus fruits and strawberries) - an immunity vitamin;
group B (B1, B2, B5, B6 and PP) - vitamins of metabolic processes, ensure the absorption of fats, carbohydrates, proteins;
vitamin K - for coagulation (clotting) of blood.

In addition, all vitamins are antioxidants; they counteract free radicals that destroy the body from the inside.

Macro- and microelements
Berries contain more potassium (8.5 mg per 100 g), phosphorus (1.3 mg) and calcium (100 g of berries contains 8 mg). The average amount is iron (0.3 mg), copper, manganese and molybdenum (on average 0.2-0.3 mg each). There is even less iodine, silver, boron, zinc, chromium and titanium. This berry contains almost the entire table of Dmitry Mendeleev.

Microscopic inclusions of essential elements provide the body with essential substances. So, for normal life, 0.1 mg of silver, up to 0.15 mg of iodine, up to 450 mg of potassium, and up to 500 mg of magnesium are needed daily.

Pectins
Pectins are substances that bind toxins and remove them from the human body. They protect us from poisoning by external poisons or products of our own vital activity.

Flavonoids
Flavonoids clean blood vessels from cholesterol deposits, and thereby normalize blood flow, improve tissue nutrition and treat inflammation. They improve the permeability of vascular walls, which means the amount of beneficial substances entering the blood.

Acids
There are more than ten of them in cranberries: lemon, oxalic, amber, benzoic, cinchona and others. They provide nutrition to muscle tissue. Thus, ursolic and oleanolic acids nourish the heart muscles, citric acid cleanses the digestive cavities, and oxalic acid ensures metabolism.

Water and calories
Like any raw berry, cranberries contain most of the water. Its composition is 89% liquid, and only the remaining 11% is divided into sugars (almost 4%), proteins (0.5%), fats (0.2%) and other components.

The calorie content of cranberries is only 26 kcal per 100 g. For dried fruits, the calorie content is higher - 310 kcal per 100 g. Therefore, for a low-calorie diet, for weight loss, it is recommended to take raw berries, whose calorie content is 10 times less.

Medicinal properties

Cranberries are a storehouse of elements and vitamins. This determines its medicinal and preventive properties. Cranberry juice has a bactericidal and stimulating effect, treats inflammation and cough, restores blood vessels, and improves immunity. Let us list the diseases in which the benefits of berries are most fully manifested:

Digestive diseases
The vitamins and pectins contained in cranberries increase the secretion of gastric juice, activate digestion and remove stagnation. Thus, the body gets rid of the causes that cause inflammation (stagnation of food and its slow movement through the intestines). The functioning of the stomach, liver and intestines returns to normal, appetite and vital activity are restored.

The stimulating properties of cranberries are also manifested in increased bile production. Thus, the bile ducts are cleansed and inflammation of the biliary tract is treated.

Similarly, cranberries restore the functioning of the pancreas, but this requires consuming the berries for several months.

In addition, cranberry concentrate has high antibactericidal properties. Experiments confirm that concentrated cranberry juice reduces the number of pathogenic bacteria in spoiled food (salmonella, E. coli). Thus, adding cranberry juice to water can be used to disinfect water and clean it from pathogens.

It is important to know: cranberry treatment is contraindicated in case of increased acidity of gastric juice. Also use the product with caution for ulcers, erosions of the stomach and duodenum.

Infections and inflammation

Cranberry juice reduces fever and stimulates the secretion of sweat and urine. In addition to bactericidal properties, the components of the berry remove toxins.

The anti-inflammatory properties of cranberries are used in various systems of the human body:

Dentistry (treatment of gum inflammation by drinking juice and rinsing the mouth with cranberry juice).
Genitourinary system (prevents infection and accelerates treatment of inflammatory diseases). Cranberry exhibits beneficial properties for men and women equally (in gynecology and urology). Juice - used for washing and douching.
Respiratory infections. Cranberry juice with honey is effective in treating cough (stimulates expectoration and reduces inflammation). Also, the use of berries improves the standing of tuberculosis patients.

Colds and immunity
Cranberries have the ability to reduce temperature. This safe remedy reduces fever without side effects.

Regular consumption of cranberry juice during winter supports the immune system and protects against colds and viral diseases.

Vessels and heart
The healing properties of cranberries are manifested in restoring the elasticity of blood vessels. Phenols provide a beneficial effect on the condition of blood vessels. They dissolve “low-density” cholesterol (the one that forms plaques and deposits on the walls of blood vessels) and form “high-density” cholesterol (the one that our body needs for the formation of cell membranes and cell renewal). Thus, cranberries improve the elasticity of blood vessels and reduce blood pressure (which also depends on the condition of the blood vessels), counteracts atherosclerosis, thrombosis, prevents heart attacks and strokes.

The property of cranberries to lower blood pressure is used to treat hypertension. The acids contained help relieve muscle spasms. This is important for the normal functioning of the heart, blood supply to the brain and other internal organs. As vascular spasm decreases, blood pressure decreases.

Musculoskeletal system
Stimulation of blood flow, adequate nutrition of tissues reduces swelling of the joints, relieves pain in arthritis, arthrosis, and rheumatism. With long-term use, it treats joint inflammation.
Kidney diseases

The berries of the plant are characterized by bactericidal and diuretic effects. Thus, they help in the treatment of kidney inflammation and bladder diseases. The bactericidal effect helps cope with genital infections (cranberry components limit the proliferation of pathogenic bacteria).

Tumors
Cranberry is known as a “miracle berry” that prevents the growth of cancer cells. The antioxidant effect of the vitamin group limits tumor growth and protects DNA.

Resveratrol is found in berries, a substance that suppresses the development of tumor cells. The berries also contain quercetin, a component that stops the growth of cancer cells in the mammary gland and colon.

Cosmetology
Another name for cranberries – “berry of youth” – confirms its beneficial effect on appearance. Improving the general condition of the body affects the health of the skin, reducing acne, pustules and pimples. And also on the shine of hair and improvement of the appearance of nails. You can enhance the cosmetic effect with external masks and lotions based on cranberry juice.

Cranberries during pregnancy
Vitamins and microelements are necessary for the full development of a child. Cranberry is a unique berry that carries the necessary components for the development of a baby in the womb. The stimulating properties of the berries help to avoid swelling, and the bactericidal properties help prevent cystitis and thrush.

Recipes and Applications

For treatment and prevention, you can eat the berries raw, mix them with honey, make juice or drink from them - fruit drink.

Dried cranberries
Drying is the traditional preparation of berries. However, dried cranberries retain only part of the biologically active components. Before drying, cranberries are blanched (doused with hot steam or kept in boiling water for 1-2 minutes). This process is associated with a large number of enzymes that cause fermentation of cranberry juice during drying. Blanching makes the enzymes inactive, and the process of drying the berries eliminates fermentation.

Due to heat treatment, the berries lose some of their biologically active substances, which means that the medicinal properties of dried cranberries become worse.
Cranberry juice with honey

This is the best cough remedy for bronchitis, tracheitis, and pneumonia. To obtain juice, the berries are crushed in a mortar (this is preferable) or ground in a meat grinder (this method is worse, since the juice flowing from the berries oxidizes on the metal surface). Crushed or crushed berries are rubbed through a sieve. The resulting juice is mixed with honey in equal proportions. The resulting tasty product is stored in the refrigerator. Drink 1 spoon (dessert spoon for children, table spoon for adults) before meals (10-15 minutes before) three times a day.

Morse
If crushed berries are poured with water, let stand for up to 30 minutes. and pour the solution through a sieve, you get a drink called fruit drink. The amount of nutrients in it is less than in juice. However, it also improves the condition of the sick body and reduces inflammation.

The second recipe for making fruit juice uses pulp without juice. It is also filled with water and infused for 30-40 minutes. Drain the water, add sugar (honey) and drink with pleasure.

The properties of cranberry juice depend on the content of useful components in it. If natural juice is added to the fruit drink, it improves the condition of blood vessels, reduces blood pressure and inflammation. If the fruit drink is made only from cake, its medicinal properties are much less - microelement and vitamin support for the body, as well as a very tasty drink.

Let's sum it up
The benefits of cranberries are manifested in almost all human organs and systems. This bactericidal agent treats various inflammations, improves the condition of blood vessels, stimulates blood flow and the secretion of other fluids in the human body (bile, gastric juice, urine). Therefore, for most people, cranberries are essential for maintaining immunity and preventing inflammation.