What happens if you eat cranberries every day?

This fruit helps prevent premature aging (SEGOB)
This fruit helps prevent premature aging (SEGOB)

He Red cranberryscientifically known as Vaccinium macrocarpon– a type of small perennial shrub belonging to the heather family. Characterized by colored fruits. deep red color, which are an important source of nutrients and bioactive compounds. This fruit is native to North America and has been part of the diet and traditional medicine of various indigenous peoples in the region.

This fruit grows mainly in damp areas such as peat bogs and swamps. Its cultivation requires special conditions of soil acidity and careful care during growth and harvesting. The fruits are harvested mainly in autumn and can consume fresh although they are more commonly found in the market as juices, dried, in capsules, or as ingredients in various foods and dietary supplements.

Nutritionally, cranberries are rich in vitamins C and E, several B vitamins, and minerals such as manganese. They are also an excellent source of antioxidants, especially flavonoids, which help reduce oxidative stress and improve cardiovascular health, among other benefits.

Their composition gives them unique properties that highlight their use in preventing urinary tract infections and maintaining cardiovascular and digestive health, so consuming them daily can have a very positive impact on your health.

Blueberries are classified as red fruits (File)
Blueberries are classified as red fruits (File)

Consuming cranberries provides many health benefits due to their high concentration of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Among the main advantages are prevention of urinary tract infectionsthanks to proanthocyanidins, which prevent bacteria such as E. coli from sticking to the walls of the bladder and urinary tract.

Additionally, the antioxidants present in cranberries, such as anthocyanins, help fight cell damage caused by free radicals, which is beneficial in preventing chronic diseases, including heart disease.

From my side, Vitamin C, An important antioxidant, which cranberries are also rich in, helps improve the immune system, collagen production and the absorption of plant-based iron. On the other hand, consuming cranberries can support digestive health thanks to fiber and other compounds that promote the growth of beneficial gut microbiota.

It is important to note that while consuming cranberries may provide health benefits, their consumption should be part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

Cranberry juice helps kidney health (illustrative image by Infobae
Cranberry juice helps kidney health (illustrative image by Infobae

While one of the best ways to consume them is fresh, the truth is that they are a little hard to find in Mexico, so you can make natural juice from frozen blueberries, which are easier to find. It is worth noting that dried cranberries, This version is the easiest to find, although they are healthy, they are high in calories and sugar, so consuming them in moderation is recommended.

To make natural cranberry juice at home, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries.
  • 3 glasses of water.
  • Optional: sweetener to taste (honey, sugar, stevia, etc.).

Preparation steps:

  • Washed: Start by rinsing fresh cranberries under running water to remove any contaminants. If you are using frozen blueberries, you can skip this step.
  • Prepare blueberries: In a medium saucepan, combine cranberries and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once it starts to boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes. The cranberries will soften and burst, releasing their juice.
  • Crush: Using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, gently mash the cranberries to extract as much juice as possible.
  • Voltage: Use a fine sieve or clean kitchen towel to strain the liquid into a bowl, discarding the cranberry pulp and skin. To make the juice more transparent, you can strain it twice.
  • Sweeten: If you want to sweeten the juice, add your sweetener of choice at this time and stir well until completely dissolved.
  • Chill: Let the juice cool to room temperature and then refrigerate until very cold.
  • Serve: Serve cranberry juice chilled. If desired, you can add ice or mix it with mineral water for a refreshing effect.

This homemade cranberry juice is a great way to enjoy the health benefits of cranberries without the sugar and additives found in many commercial juices.

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