Cranberries are related to blueberries and bilberries. And like these two berries they contain really high levels of antioxidants, phytonutrients, vitamins and minerals.

They can be added to our diet in many ways, from drinking their juice, baking, making homemade jam or jellies, adding them to smoothies, or snacking on them dried or raw. It’s important to remember that if you want to get the most from them - raw is best! I’ve listed below the benefits of including them in our diet. 

• Cranberry fruit contains a specific phytonutrient that can prevent E. coli bacteria attaching to the inner surface lining of the bladder and urinary tract. Drinking pure cranberry juice or taking a cranberry supplement can reduce the risk of UTI’s (urinary tract infections).
• The phytonutrients in cranberries have also been shown to help prevent tooth decay and gum disease by preventing the bacteria that causes it from binding to the teeth.
• Cranberries are really helpful in reducing inflammation. The phytonutrients found in cranberries act as anti-inflammatories reducing the levels of free radicals that cause havoc in our body.
• The proanthocyanidins found in cranberries are believed to help balance the healthy bacteria and reduce the levels of harmful bacteria in our gut from growing, particularly in those who eat meat and dairy.
• Cranberries also contain a good amount of vitamin C which can help the immune system function more effectively in times of illness. Along with balancing the good bacteria in our gut, cranberries help with water retention by acting as a natural diuretic.

If that’s not enough to convince you I will be posting a delicious cranberry recipe soon!