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02-01-2008, 12:35 PM
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Natural Remedy: Cranberries
 POSITIVELY GOOD EATING—AND GOOD FOR YOU Cranberries offer several important health benefits. Today, health researchers are producing reliable evidence that cranberries are not only a healthy low calorie fruit but they can also play a significant role in preventing urinary tract infections and reducing the risk of gum disease. Research on the potential benefits of cranberries in other health areas including heart disease and cancer prevention is ongoing. URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS Several studies have confirmed that cranberries can play an important role in maintaining urinary tract health. In a study conducted by a team of Harvard researchers in 1994, elderly women who drank 300 ml of cranberry juice daily reduced their odds of infection by 58%. In a follow-up study in October of 1998 scientists from Rutgers University confirmed the Harvard study by pinpointing the compound existing in cranberries that prevents bacteria from adhering to cells of the urinary tract. Cranberries have what Rutgers researchers call “anti-adhesion” properties that significantly reduce the risk of urinary tract infections. New research published in a letter in the Journal of The American Medical Association suggests that cranberries may have even greater bacteria-fighting properties than previously thought. This new research supports a potentially broader range of benefits for fighting bacteria, such as Staphylococcus, salmonella as well as E. coli. HEART DISEASE An ongoing University of Wisconsin study is researching the cranberry’s ability to significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Scientists found that cranberry extract contains antioxidants, which play a fundamental role in slowing the oxidation that leads to heart disease. One of the biologists conducting the study states that “as little as one-fourth of an ounce could have some benefit.” CANCER FIGHTING PROPERTIES Epidemiological evidence has long supported the role of naturally occurring anti-cancer agents in fruits and vegetables in reducing the risks of many diseases including cancers and heart disease. A variety of compounds produced by plants, such as flavonoids, have been investigated for their anti-cancer activity. Cranberries are a rich source of these compounds. A recent study at the University of Western Ontario is the first to document that regular consumption of cranberry products may inhibit the development of breast cancer in animals. According to the researcher, while the results are very preliminary, “this study may suggest that cranberry products could have cancer fighting properties in humans.” GUM DISEASE In December of 1998, a team of researchers from Tel Aviv University determined that the same “anti-adhesion” properties that prevent bacteria from forming in the urinary track prevent bacteria from forming in the mouth. They discovered that the “anti-adhesion” compound that exists in cranberries also reduces the amount of oral bacteria. By creating a “bacteria inhibiting” effect, cranberries minimize the formation of dental plaque, which is a leading cause of gum disease. While these studies offer clear evidence that cranberries offer health benefits beyond their basic nutritional value consumers can continue to enjoy cranberries and cranberry products for their unique and zesty taste. Wisconsin Cranberries —Positively Good Eating and Good for You!
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