Cranberries are not grown in the UK, which may explain why they are not one of our more popular berries (such as the strawberry and raspberry), but could largely be due to their sharp taste. The cranberry is, however, often used in conjunction with other fruits to make juices and smoothies – it is estimated that around 95% of all cranberries harvested are made into drinks and sauces.
Cranberries can be found in their dehydrated form in some breakfast cereals and low-fat muffins and breads. They can also be frozen from fresh, and used in many recipes – they are particularly nice with vanilla ice cream or made into a coulis with other berries. Cranberries can also be used in many savoury dishes, making a tasty addition to stuffing with a Sunday roast.
Why are cranberries so good to eat?
Cranberries are an exceptional little berry and are always featured on the list of main superfoods. There’s no doubting the nutritional properties of this fruit which is also low fat and low calorie.
There has been much research into the scientific benefits of eating cranberries, with very promising results. Researchers have identified that cranberries prevent microorganisms from forming in the urinary tract that lead to urinary tract infections. It is for this reason that cranberry juice is very often recommended as a non-prescriptive solution for cystitis, a common female syndrome.
The same "anti-adhesion" property that prevents bacteria from forming in the urinary tract also does a similar job in the mouth – cranberries can help to reduce the formation of plaque that can lead to gum disease.
Scientists have claimed that there is an anti-cancer and anti-ulcer compound found in cranberries, which can inhibit the formation of cancer cells and prevent ulcer-causing bacteria (H. pylori bacteria) in the stomach. Cranberries have also been found to substantially reduce bad cholesterol levels in the blood, and raise the good cholesterol levels – this reduces the possibility of heart disease.
Cranberries are seriously good to eat and women particularly will find them a fabulous addition to their diet.
Food Group: Vegetable
Nutritional Values: Per 100g (green olives)
- 46 Calories
- 0.1g Fat of which 0% is saturated
- 0 Trans fats
- 12.2g Carbohydrates
Nutrients:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
- Potassium
- Phosphorus
- Calcium
