Is it possible to eat raw cranberries? The benefits of cranberries for the body. The benefits and harms of cranberries. Is it possible to give cranberries to animals?

Cranberry berries are one of the few products that can retain their healing properties and vitamin value for up to six months. Of course, it is not “winter”, because at this time the berries do not seem to grow, with the “exception of the red viburnum”, which sometimes “burns in the garden”, but it is during this cold period that we are so lacking in these very vitamins, so In the article we will look at some myths about this berry, what health benefits and harms of cranberries should make us “prettier”:

  • Additional source vitamins with microelements, a small amount of these berries acts as this source of vitamins, these are carotenoids (provitamin A), like a rare vitamin PP called nicotinic acid, the classics - vitamin C, E, vitamins of the classical group B1, 2, 5, 6, vitamin Well, there is no less of it in cranberries than in cabbage. In addition to all this, the northern berry contains trace elements - iron, molybdenum, copper, manganese, iodine, magnesium, without which the most important body functions do not work well, as well as zinc, nickel, cobalt.
  • Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effect. The consumption of cranberries will be quite useful for some inflammatory diseases, since it contains many biologically active compounds, these are organic acids (citric, malic, benzoic, quinic, ursulic, etc.); bioflavonoids (polyphenols, catechins, proanthocyanidins). Cranberries by themselves do not contain that much vitamin C, but in combination with the action of flavonoids, the effect of this natural ascorbic acid with the flavonoids themselves will be greatly enhanced due to the onset of the so-called synergistic effect. And the proantacids contained in cranberries give this berry antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, which determines its use for infections or some inflammatory diseases of our urinary tract. Drinking various fruit drinks, infusions based on cranberry juice for viral infections, acute respiratory infections, of course, in combination with the prescribed treatment, will also be useful. It is also believed that cranberry juice has some immunomodulatory effects.
  • Antioxidant properties cranberries The anthocyanins, cahetins, and betanins contained in cranberries, when included in the diet, help remove free radicals from the body, have a positive effect on the body’s metabolism as a whole, and these substances also fight cell aging. There are also opinions that cranberries also have hepatoprotective properties, that is, they can “greatly” help the liver perform its most important functions, improve cholesterol metabolism, and it also seems to have an anti-carcinogenic effect.
  • Counteracts radiation and heavy metal poisoning. The substance pectin, contained specifically in cranberries, is very useful for people in environments contaminated with radionuclides, as well as those in contact with heavy metals and their salts.
  • Long term storage Cranberries, unlike other berries and fruits, retain all the beneficial substances until the end of winter and beyond, due to the presence of a natural preservative that has a high concentration - benzoic acid. Freezing will also be an excellent way to preserve cranberry properties, because it is no coincidence that they are picked when the first frost occurs. Previously, cranberries were stored in water, in barrels, preserving all their taste and beneficial properties until spring.

Cranberries inside and out. How can you use cranberries?

  • Morse. For the drink to be healthy, it must be prepared correctly. First, we rub the berries to obtain juice, then we need to boil the cake, which remains after squeezing the juice, then we strain the broth, add honey or sugar to taste, after the broth has cooled, it needs to be mixed with cranberry juice. In the absence of contraindications, in the fall and winter, freshly prepared cranberry juice, 2 glasses each, will be an excellent prevention of acute respiratory infections, and even to some extent a tonic. Do not forget that sugary drinks are contraindicated for “diabetics” and overweight individuals. Also, existing problems in the gastrointestinal tract (high acidity, classics of the genre - gastritis, also ulcers) require careful use of fresh cranberry juice so as not to provoke any exacerbations.
  • Dessert. You need to chop cranberries with walnuts, here you need to experiment, start with 50x50, add sugar or honey, mix, the resulting mixture will be an excellent alternative to regular sweets.
  • Masks. Using pure cranberry juice can have a healing effect on the skin; cranberries are used in cosmetology, as masks, for example. Mix cranberry juice with oatmeal and apply to your face only if your skin is oily, and since the mask has some antibacterial properties, it can also be used for acne or inflammatory manifestations.

By the way, in addition to the usual “forest-grown” cranberries, there are also garden cranberries on sale – a berry that is larger than a forest cranberry and has slightly different properties. Many experts recommend eating wild cranberries, which grow in small bushes and have mycorrhizal mycelium on the roots, through which the berry receives nutrients. It is generally accepted that wild berries have a richer content of vitamins and biologically active substances.

Myth about the harm and benefits of cranberries. Is it always useful?

With the beginning of autumn, the time begins for probably the most famous berry in Rus' - cranberry, and absolutely fantastic properties are attributed to it. Well, we learned about the reasons to eat cranberries every day, but what myths are there about the dangers and benefits of cranberries? If they talk about the benefits of a product, they refer to some kind of scientific research and testing.

From experience

In general, as a rule, serious scientific research is not carried out on food products of natural origin due to their high cost and, secondly, due to the lack of interest in them among the interested “characters”, because they are usually pharmaceutical companies, which The promotion of “cranberry preparations” to the market is not at all “camille”, and cranberry is unlikely to have such “lobbyists” among drug manufacturers.

Therefore, all kinds of healing properties of cranberry are described on the basis of laboratory studies and analyzes of its composition, and, of course, from personal experience. Cranberries are unique in that, as mentioned above, they contain “too much” vitamins and microelements, organic acids, sugars, fructose, tannins, pectins, etc. So it turns out that cranberries do not save you from ulcers, gastritis or caries, as promised by some learned minds. Regarding treatment, until recently, cranberry was actually used for the treatment of existing gastritis with high acidity, when the therapeutic effects of the berry are based on increasing the pH of gastric juice “in accordance” with the organic acids it contains.

But today, “gastritis sufferers” are no longer prescribed strict diets, which imply the complete exclusion of anything spicy or sour foods, because now the treatment tactic is to detect the classic bacterium Chylcobacter pylori and prescribe medications to destroy it. This, of course, does not mean that such patients can calmly and freely drink alcohol and consume it with fat, and in order to prescribe treatment now, data on the existing acidity (Ph) of gastric juice in principle are not required and cranberry fruit drinks are not prohibited, but treatment with their help is also not prohibited is also not carried out.

To “treat” gastric ulcer with the notorious duodenal ulcer, cranberries are not used because of the same factor – the property of increasing the acidity of gastric juice, which provokes an exacerbation of the disease. As for caries, the situation is the same; brushing teeth is, in principle, recommended after every meal, since today the most effective prevention of caries is mechanical cleaning of our oral cavities.

Not an antibiotic but maybe

If the body has a high resistance to infection, and the number of microbes in food is small, then consuming cranberries is quite possible to prevent the development of an intestinal infection, this possibility is explained by the high content of the mentioned organic acids - benzoic, citric, malic and tannins. It is also very good to take cranberries as an antipyretic for colds, since vitamin C contributes to this reduction in temperature with an increase in the body’s protective reactions. Added to this is the fact that cranberry is a diuretic, in the form of an addition to uroseptics, but not instead of them.

Some American researchers claim that 2-3 glasses of cranberry juice daily can increase good cholesterol levels in the blood. That's kind of it. With regular consumption of cranberry juice, the probability of preventing the notorious atherosclerosis is actually quite high, and this is exactly what we are talking about if we are talking about increasing the level of so-called good cholesterol. Just to fulfill this recommendation of 2 – 3 glasses, you would need to have an “iron stomach” in stock.

After all, people, for the most part, consuming cranberry juice will quickly develop problems with the gastrointestinal tract, such as ulcers, gastritis, cholecystitis, pancreatitis, etc. To benefit, it will be enough to drink cranberry juice 2-3 times a week and 1 glass each, 180 milliliters, this is when there is no presence of chronic diseases in this very gastrointestinal tract.

Swamp Doctor cranberry - berry

Well, we found out that cranberry juice is a wonderful antiviral remedy because: 1 - cranberries have an unknown antipyretic effect, 2 - cranberries quench thirst well, 3 - with the help of this berry they are removed from the body toxins that accumulate in abundance during colds. Cranberry juice mixed with honey has long been used to help cough up sore throats and boost immunity in order to “save” from the next flu or cold.

Even those who rarely miss work due to a cough or runny nose should drink more cranberry juice, because a couple of glasses a day will return a good mood and reduce fatigue, even if the day was the most stressful. It will also contribute to your career, because drinking cranberry juice increases brain activity and increases your ability to work.

“People” who are prone to high blood pressure should definitely use cranberries in their menu. As was said above, cranberries with their diuretic effect can reduce blood pressure, the most important thing here is that, unlike diuretic drugs, it does not wash away beneficial potassium from our body, which greatly helps strengthen our blood vessels. Considering that cranberries also lower “bad” cholesterol, the gifts of autumn are an absolutely indispensable berry for heart patients, and they also successfully replace table salt, which is limited in cases of heart disease, vascular diseases, and excess weight problems.

In general, not only heart patients with hypertension should “fall in love” with cranberries, this sour berry can protect yourself from the notorious cystitis, which is the most unpleasant companion of cold weather, because the properties contained in cranberries prevent bacteria from attaching to the internal surfaces of the urinary tract, so it turns out – no bacteria – no infection either, which means that if someone often suffers from cystitis, a daily glass of cranberry juice should be consumed to eliminate the above problems.

Often the cause of cystitis with other urological diseases is E. coli, which is also a cause of infection, but fortunately it is the one “in the whole wide world” that is most afraid of cranberries, so this berry is often recommended in the treatment of some intestinal disorders in the stomach.

When our stomach, for some reason, goes on strike, we need to pour a couple or three tablespoons of cranberries into two glasses of water, hot of course, and boil for 10 minutes over low heat, cool, filter and drink ½ glass a day, 4 times One limitation, as was said, cranberries are not very suitable for people with elevated stomach pH, ​​cranberry juice may well cause an exacerbation of peptic ulcers, gastritis with increased gastric secretions. For skin diseases, cranberry juice, as a compress, can also help in getting rid of skin inflammation, rashes, itching, eczema, etc. and cranberry juice also helps in healing wounds.

This is interesting. The Latin name for cranberry is a berry of Greek origin, “oxis” in translation means sour and “cocus”, that is, spherical, literally translated like sour ball. Cranberries differ from other berry bushes in their longevity; some “cranberries” can live up to 100 years or more.

Which cranberries are healthier – small or large-fruited ones, or maybe frozen cranberries? How to store them correctly, see the video below.

22.10.2018

Beneficial properties of cranberries and why you should eat cranberries

The beneficial properties of cranberries have been known for a very long time. Scientists place cranberries among the healthiest foods. Over the past 30 years, numerous studies have been published showing that this berry provides excellent protection against many diseases. Cranberries contain antioxidants, vitamin C, fiber and potassium.

1. Antioxidant properties
Helps strengthen the body's protective antioxidant properties, protects blood cells, heart, skin, brain and others

2. Neutralizes germs
Thanks to the presence of proanticyanides in cranberries, they help prevent microbes from attaching to the cell walls of the digestive and genitourinary systems and thereby prevent the damage they cause.

3. Helps prevent inflammation of the urinary system
Proanticyanides prevent E coli bacteria from sticking to the walls of the bladder and multiplying, and as a result they are washed out in the urine, thereby reducing the risk of inflammation. Many studies confirm that a glass of cranberry juice 1-2 times a day can reduce the risk of urinary tract inflammation by 20% and reduce the recurrence of inflammation by 40%.

4. Reducing the risk of developing ulcers
Cranberries reduce the risk of developing stomach ulcers. Cranberry juice prevents Lycobacter bacteria from attaching to the walls of the urinary tract and stomach cells, and therefore they are excreted and do not multiply. In many cases, 2 glasses of cranberry juice helps prevent Lycobacter infection in adults and children. It also helps reduce the risk of developing stomach inflammations and ulcers, which increase the risk of stomach cancer.

5. Reduces bad cholesterol levels
Cranberries help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and help increase good cholesterol (HDL), which protects the circulatory system, thereby helping prevent atherosclerosis and other circulatory diseases

6. Fights cancer cells
Thanks to the presence of proanticyanides, cranberries help inhibit the development and spread of cancer cells.

7. Inhibits the development of caries and gum disease
Numerous studies in recent years have shown that the special polyphenols found in cranberries prevent oral microbes from infecting your gums.

8. May Prevent Influenza Infection
Perhaps in the near future it will be possible to fight the flu with cranberries. The first such study, conducted by Israeli scientists from the University of Jerusalem, showed that the active ingredients in cranberries prevented the virus from attaching to cell walls and thereby prevented the development of the disease. It's too early to draw firm conclusions, but researchers agree that cranberry drink may also help fight the flu virus.

Which is better: fresh or dried cranberries? The antioxidant properties of cranberries are preserved in any form: frozen, in jam, in dried berries. It can be used as a dessert, added to salads, cocktails and meat dishes.

How much cranberry is recommended per day?
1-2 glasses of cranberry juice are recommended to ensure that the body receives the benefits that cranberries provide.
Approved for diabetics and contains sucrasite.
A glass of juice is equal to 1.5 glasses of fresh or frozen berries or 2 tablespoons of dried cranberries (30 g)

Cranberries are not our favorite type of berry because they are quite bitter and sour at the same time. And it becomes unclear whether cranberries are actually healthy? But it’s not for nothing that they call it “the lemon from the north,” because in terms of the amount of vitamin C it ranks high among other fruits and berries. Thanks to its unique composition, this berry helps to heal and prevent the development of a large number of diseases.

Medicinal properties of cranberries

In addition to vitamin C, cranberries also contain quinic, citric and benzoic acids (the latter of which allows you to keep cranberries fresh and healthy for a long time), vitamins from groups PP, B, K, sugars, carotene, pectin and tannins, essential oil, calcium, iodine , cobalt, copper, boron, magnesium, manganese, etc.


Cranberry

The berries are consumed not only fresh, but also frozen, dried, and soaked. Cranberries make very tasty fruit drinks and juices, jellies and preserves, cocktails and jelly, as well as cranberry kvass. Salads with cranberries are very tasty; they are often added to meat pies.

Nutrients in cranberries

  • vitamins of group B, C, K, PP;
  • potassium;
  • calcium;
  • phosphorus;
  • iron;
  • manganese;
  • magnesium;
  • copper;
  • molybdenum;
  • cobalt;
  • tin;
  • copper;
  • chromium;
  • titanium;
  • zinc.

Cranberry is considered a natural organic antibiotic. Scientists have found that infections in the kidneys, inflammation of the stomach, as well as the large and small intestines most often begin with the entry of E.Coli bacteria into the human body. It is quite difficult to fight them with medications, but fresh cranberry juice contains substances that can destroy harmful bacteria. Drinking cranberry juice is also an excellent prevention of peptic ulcers, which often occurs due to bacteria such as Helicobacter pylori entering the body.

Today, cranberries grow in almost all corners of Russia, as well as in the Far East. The berry is abundant in Ukraine and much of Europe, and is found in the northern United States, Canada and Alaska. According to the legend of the Delaware Indians, cranberries grow on the ground where the blood of warriors who fought giants was shed.

Who is cranberry harmful for?

  • for stomach ulcers;
  • diseases of the duodenum;
  • for gastritis with high acidity;
  • with liver disease;
  • with weakened tooth enamel.

How many cranberries to eat per day

According to doctors, just 250-500 ml of fresh cranberry juice daily will help every person avoid most unpleasant diseases from viruses and infections. However, you should not abuse or exceed this norm, because cranberry acid in large quantities can have a bad effect on your health.

How to cook cranberries without losing their beneficial properties

To preserve the maximum benefits from cranberries, it is advisable to eat them fresh. As you know, when heated, most natural products lose most of their beneficial microelements. So eat cranberries raw, but don't forget to rinse them thoroughly!

Healthy cosmetic recipes with cranberries

Many people know how to use cranberries internally, but masks with this berry are also incredibly beneficial for our beauty and youth.

Anti-oily cranberry mask

1 tsp mix cranberry juice with 1 tsp. potato flour or oatmeal ground in a blender. Apply all over your face for 20 minutes, then rinse with plenty of water and do not forget to moisturize your skin with cream. This mask not only reduces oily skin, but also cleanses and tightens pores.

Cranberry mask for problem skin

1 tsp mix cranberry juice with the same amount of natural grape juice, add 1/2 grated apple, 1 tbsp. honey and a pinch of baby powder. Apply to face for 10 minutes and then rinse with warm water.

A compress with cranberry juice will also help against acne:

Soak cotton pads in cranberry juice and place on face for 10 minutes. It is advisable to completely relax and lie down while the compress works. After this, rinse off the remaining juice with cool water and apply face cream.

During the winter cold weather the body needs vitamin support. A lack of vitamin C causes fatigue, nervousness, and decreased immunity. Everyone makes up for the lack of vitamin C in the body in their own way: with vitamin complexes or fruits.

But it is enough to include it in your daily diet cranberries, and you will forget this constant craving for sour things, your body will be glad to receive a full vitamin replenishment in a living natural way. In addition, cranberries have a number of invaluable medicinal properties and are simply unique in their composition.

Composition and properties of cranberries

In addition to vitamin C cranberries contains PP, K, E, A, group B. Cranberries are rich in microelements: calcium, iodine, iron, phosphorus, manganese. The high potassium content in cranberries is beneficial for the functioning of the heart muscle and the normal functioning of the nervous system. The northern berry contains many antioxidants that remove radionuclides from the body, promote wound healing, reduce cholesterol levels, and prevent the formation of malignant tumors.

Organic acids, which cranberries are rich in, work real miracles. Benzoic acid is a natural preservative and prevents pathogenic bacteria from multiplying. Ursolic acid fights kidney stones, malic acid improves digestion.

Cranberry helps with sore throat, rheumatism, tuberculosis, caries, purulent wounds and genitourinary infections. No matter how you break the cranberry into its components, it is useful from all sides due to its unique composition and combination of natural elements. A real berry of life.

Recipes for strengthening the immune system and treating diseases with cranberries

cranberries easy to buy at any supermarket or market. In the fall, fresh berries appear on sale, but frozen ones are also suitable for consumption. Stock up for the winter - put one or two kilograms of cranberries in the freezer, and you will be provided with a natural and reliable remedy for strengthening the immune system.

Before consumption you need to get as many frozen berries as you can eat in two or three days, put them in a colander, quickly rinse under running cold (not hot!) water, and put them in a bowl. The berries should defrost naturally, and the juice that drains during the defrosting process should not be washed off with water. Add sugar to the defrosted berries to taste, and crush the cranberries with a wooden masher, or mash them with a spoon.

They will turn out fresh berries in its own juice, which can be eaten in this form to strengthen the immune system daily. You need to eat very little crushed cranberries per day: three to four tablespoons to saturate the body with the daily requirement of vitamins. You can prepare a fruit drink from the resulting crushed berries. Pour the mixture with water, let it stand for several hours, and then rub through a sieve. The concentration of the juice will depend on the amount of water added. It turns out a delicious tonic drink with living vitamins. Excellent invigorates and gives strength.

If you have a cold, drink from cranberries warm with honey should be taken regularly until complete recovery. For genitourinary infections, it is useful to drink one or two glasses of concentrated cranberry juice. For stomach ulcers and gastritis with low acidity, cranberry juice is diluted 1:1 with beet juice and taken 3 times a day, 1/4 cup. For gum disease, it is useful to chew cranberries several times a day. To treat wounds, use pure cranberry juice (no sugar), diluted 1:1 with water, it will significantly speed up the healing process.


Don't forget that thanks to high Due to the acid content, cranberries are contraindicated for people with high stomach acidity, and after eating or chewing the berries, you should rinse your mouth to avoid damage to tooth enamel.

Cranberries can not only be used to treat or escape from. This berry is successfully used in cooking due to its rich sour taste. It makes delicious sauces for meat, or sweet and sour desserts.

Bake regular sour cream cake Without removing the cake from the mold, place frozen cranberries on it. Cover the cranberries with the egg whites and sugar whipped into a strong foam and place in the oven for 10 minutes until the meringue appears golden brown. This amazing homemade pie will delight your family with a combination of sweet cake layers and meringue with the contrasting sour taste of cranberries.

The use of cranberries in cosmetology

High content and a wide range of vitamins and organic acids allows us to successfully use cranberries in cosmetology. Acid peeling with cranberries involves simply applying cranberry juice to cleansed facial skin. To reduce the active effects of acids on the skin and soften it, add a drop of honey. After twenty minutes, the mask can be washed off. The skin becomes velvety, sebaceous plugs and comedones dissolve, and complexion improves.

So, the unique northern berry will heal, invigorate, feed, and bestow beauty!

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General information

Calorie content

Useful material

Benefits of cranberries

This berry can significantly harm people who have high levels of gastric acidity. The same goes for those who suffer from ulcers. The acids contained in cranberries in abundance can damage gastric tissue. The benefits and harms of cranberries in this situation, however, can be balanced - just grind the berries with sugar. Then they will retain their healing qualities, but will not cause trouble to the body.

Dried cranberries

Cranberry juice

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 and harms of raspberries

Benefits of cranberries

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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.”
  10. 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.
  11. 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.

Uses of cranberries

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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 and harms of lingonberries

Benefits of cranberries for pregnant women

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

Benefits of cranberries for children

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

benefits and harms of blueberries

Video: healing properties of cranberries

Today, over 20 varieties of cranberries are common in Russia. Some of them, such as Vaccinium macrocarpon, are distinguished by their particularly large berries.

The shrub grows on moist soils: in lowlands of lakes and in coniferous forests. The fruits ripen in October-November and are eaten both fresh and processed.

Composition and nutritional value

The healing qualities of cranberries have been known for a very long time. In addition to the fact that this berry is a source of vitamins and valuable substances, it can be stored frozen for a very long time, which makes it especially valuable.

Cranberries contain:

  • titratable acids (citric, malic, quinic, benzoic, ursolic);
  • sugars, among which the largest% is glucose (1.5-2.7) and fructose (1-2.5);
  • vitamin C (45-77 mg per 100 g of product). There is enough of it in cranberries to compete with citrus fruits and garden strawberries;
  • polysaccharides, in particular pectins (0.17-1.8%), which increase immunity and normalize intestinal flora;
  • vitamins of group B (B1, B2, B5, B6), as well as PP, A and K1;
  • polyphenols – flavonols, anthocyanins and catechins. These elements help strengthen capillaries and also have anti-inflammatory and anti-sclerotic effects;
  • macro- and microelements (potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, as well as iron, copper, magnesium).

What’s incredible is that, despite the fact that cranberries contain all the elements required by the human body, their calorie content in unprocessed form is only 28 kcal, which is significantly lower than that of strawberries (41 kcal) and black currants (42 kcal).

The benefits and harms of cranberries

According to the results of numerous scientists from around the world, the benefits of cranberries for the body are very high. It is considered one of the most valuable food products. Thanks to its universal composition, the berry has a positive effect on health, helping to cure many diseases.

  • Binds and removes heavy metals and radioactive components from the body.
  • Helps cure gastritis with low acidity and pancreatitis at the initial stage of development.
  • Used as an antipyretic.
  • Has antibacterial properties. For this reason, it is recommended to drink a drink with cranberries for inflammation of the genitourinary system, as well as to prevent the occurrence of stones in the kidneys and gall bladder.
  • Improves the activity of the cardiovascular system: removes excess cholesterol from the blood, reduces the likelihood of strokes and heart attacks, helps to recover faster after suffering from these diseases, and has a positive effect on metabolic processes in the heart muscle.
  • Relieves the body of excess fluid, which is especially important for people suffering from hypertension. In this case, potassium is not lost at all, since its reserves are replenished from fruits.

The benefit of cranberries also lies in the ability to counteract harmful microorganisms such as E. coli and the bacterium Helicobacter Pylori. Crane berry is also a good immunostimulating medicine and a natural weapon in the fight against oral diseases.

Harm of cranberries

The fruit contains a significant amount of ascorbic acid, which makes it an extremely undesirable product for those suffering from ulcers of the duodenum and stomach walls, as well as for allergy sufferers. For gastritis, experts do not recommend consuming cranberries at all, as do people with high acidity of gastric juice.

Cranberries: storage methods and uses

Freezing is not the only way to store berries. Our ancestors filled a wooden barrel with washed fruits, filled it with clean water and tightly covered it with a lid with air vents. Provided that the container is in a dark, cool room, the cranberries can remain fresh until the next harvest. You can start eating soaked berries 30 days after planting.

The fruits are added to fruit drinks, juices, kvass and all kinds of healing tinctures. They make excellent preserves: jellies, jams, preserves and marmalade.

Dark red berries are perfect for decorating confectionery products. Dried cranberries are added to salads and baked goods, and fresh cranberries are ground with sugar.

Having prepared soaked berries for the winter, use a recipe for preparing them with honey and use them as a remedy for colds.

Jams, jams and cranberry juices are common among home-canned food lovers. The use of such a product helps cleanse and thin the blood, replenish blood cells, and increase hemoglobin levels.

Swamp cranberries, the benefits of which have been studied by foreign and responsible scientists, are used to prepare sauces, pickles, and meat dishes. Many other recipes have been created on its basis, so even the most demanding gourmet will find original uses for the berry in cooking.

Result:

Regular consumption of cranberries in any form prevents the occurrence of many diseases in children and adults. Dishes containing it are not only healthy, but also very tasty. Therefore, do not limit yourself in consuming these berries, especially during the cold season, if you have no contraindications.

Source: cranberries for the body

Cranberries are a priceless treasure of the forest pantry. The rich chemical composition of this berry gave it a second, popular name - “sour doctor”. Everyone knows how great the benefits of cranberries are for the body. But in order for this berry not to cause harm, it is advisable to know its properties well, in what case it should be used, and to whom it is contraindicated.

General information

Cranberry is a low-growing evergreen shrub of the heather family. It grows in peat bogs and swamps. The plant blooms in late spring or early summer, and bears fruit in September.

Low cranberry shoots reach thirty centimeters. The fruits are small, round, dark red in color, from 8 mm (in wild varieties) to 2 cm (in some cultivated varieties) in diameter.

In Russia, as a rule, berries are picked by hand, although this is a rather troublesome process. And in Canada, the USA, Belarus, and Poland, the industrial method of collecting cranberries is widespread. They do this in autumn, spring and even winter.

It is generally accepted that “snow” berries, obtained in early spring, are the sweetest. But in the autumn harvest, harvested after the first frost, the benefits of cranberries are most clearly manifested. At this time, the berry turns out to be the juiciest and most delicious.

Calorie content

The energy value of cranberries is low. For berries grown on plantations, it is 26 kcal, and for wild berries - 35.4 kcal (per 100 grams). Frozen cranberries contain 15.2 kcal. But the berry, mashed with sugar, is much more nutritious - almost 272 kcal. The energy value of dried cranberries is 308 kcal.

The share of carbohydrates in the indicated amount of fresh berries accounts for almost 4 g. There is less than half a gram of protein, and 0.2 g of fat. On average, 2 g is fiber, 0.3 g is ash. Fresh cranberries are 90% water.

Useful material

The complex of valuable substances on which the unique benefits of cranberries are based is truly impressive. It is a storehouse of vitamins (C, K, A, many from group B). The berries have a high potassium content. Cranberries are rich in other macroelements (calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium). It also contains iron, iodine, manganese and copper.

Organic acids (citric, oxalic, quinic, malic, benzoic and others) are present in large quantities in cranberries. As well as phenolic compounds that provide protection against radiation and prevent cancer.

The benefits of cranberries for the body experiencing the harmful effects of radioactive substances, as well as heavy metal salts, are due to the high content of pectin in it. Its important quality is the ability to bind and remove compounds of lead, cesium, and cobalt. Therefore, it is advisable to include cranberries in the diet of people engaged in hazardous production.

Benefits of cranberries

Since ancient times, cranberries have served as an important source of vitamins in winter. It was used to treat scurvy, as well as various viral and colds. The benefits of cranberries as a natural antibiotic have long been recognized by official medicine.

Eating raw berries will help prevent hemorrhoids and varicose veins. The amino acids in its composition support blood vessels, helping them become more elastic.

There is an opinion that the benefits of cranberries are invaluable for people who are hereditarily prone to cancer (primarily stomach cancer). Since this berry helps prevent disease.

Compresses made from fresh and frozen cranberries help eliminate headaches. They are also used to make ointments that accelerate the healing of wounds and burns.

Cranberry juice is an excellent remedy for kidney stones. It is also applied to areas of the skin affected by herpes or fungus. By rubbing your face with cranberry juice frozen in ice cubes in the morning, you can achieve an excellent rejuvenating and toning effect.

Cautions and contraindications

People prone to allergies should consume cranberries with extreme caution. Intolerance to any substance in its composition cannot be ruled out.

Nursing mothers, as well as children under three years of age, are prohibited from eating cranberries.

This berry can significantly harm people who have high levels of gastric acidity. The same goes for those who suffer from ulcers.

The acids contained in cranberries in abundance can damage gastric tissue. The benefits and harms of cranberries in this situation, however, can be balanced - just grind the berries with sugar.

Then they will retain their healing qualities, but will not cause trouble to the body.

You should not drink whole cranberry juice. It is advisable to dilute it with water, adding honey or sugar to taste. It is also not recommended to eat cranberries on an empty stomach - it is best to complete the meal with them. After eating berries, it will be useful to rinse your mouth with water to avoid acid damage to tooth enamel.

The benefits and harms of cranberries during pregnancy

Moderate consumption of cranberries during pregnancy will help prevent or eliminate many health problems that await a woman at this time.

During the period of bearing a child, the expectant mother very often encounters diseases of the genitourinary system and kidneys. Drinking drinks based on cranberry juice blocks the spread of bacteria and has a detrimental effect on many strains of microorganisms. It also resists cystitis, urethritis and pyelonephritis.

The undoubted benefit of cranberries for a woman preparing to become a mother lies in her ability to strengthen the immune system, normalize uterine placental blood circulation, and prevent intrauterine growth arrest.

Also, drinks made from this berry improve tissue reactions in the body of a pregnant woman. As a result, it is possible to avoid dropsy and edema.

The benefits of cranberries during pregnancy are also associated with the antioxidants included in its composition. These berries have a positive effect on memory and the activity of the central nervous system, and minimize the risk of postpartum depression.

However, you should know that cranberries should not be consumed by women with diseases of the digestive system, as well as by expectant mothers taking sulfo drugs.

Dried cranberries

It is interesting to know that the benefits of dried cranberries are no less than freshly picked ones. Therefore, this method of harvesting these berries is popular and widely applicable.

First, the berries should be sorted, washed, and then kept over hot steam for several minutes (or blanched in boiling water).

Next, they need to be scattered on a wide surface (wooden or covered with linen cloth) and left to air dry in the shade or in a well-ventilated area. You can also use an oven, a special fruit dryer or a microwave oven for these purposes.

Ready berries do not stick together into lumps and stop staining your fingers with juice. They are scattered in cloth bags and stored for up to three years.

Cranberry juice

A healthy and tasty drink, cranberry juice, can be prepared according to the following recipe:

  • You should take a glass of fresh (or frozen) cranberries, a third of a glass of sugar and one and a half liters of water.
  • If necessary, defrost the berries and squeeze out the juice, which is set aside for now.
  • Sprinkle the cake with sugar and add water. It needs to be boiled over low heat for no more than a couple of minutes, then cooled.
  • Mix the broth with cranberry juice.

You can also make jam, kvass, jelly, pie filling and even candy from cranberries. In any form, it will additionally serve as medicine to the body.

Source: berries, contraindications

Cranberry is a low-growing, winter-hardy shrub that lives in swamps and peat bogs.

In September, red berries ripen on low stems, which are popular among people for their rich vitamin composition and excellent medicinal properties.

In general, cranberries are classified as wild plants, but now the industrial cultivation of cultivated varieties of berries has become popular for widespread use in medicine and cooking.

Composition of cranberries: calorie content, chemical composition, vitamins

The calorie content of the berry is very low - 28 kcal (for comparison, an apple contains 47 kcal). Cranberries are 89% water.

The rest consists of fiber (3.3 g), simple carbohydrates (3.7 g in total), pectin, several types of organic acids: malic, citric, benzoic.

It is the latter that provides the berry with such long-term storage - it is known that it can be collected under snow and even in spring, while cranberries reach full maturity in October.

Among the vitamins, the berry contains: 4 B vitamins, vitamins C, E, K, PP. The mineral complex is represented by potassium (119 mg), magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, sodium, and iron. High medicinal properties are provided to the berry by bioactive compounds: flavonoids, tannins, esters, tannin (tannic acid), several antioxidants.

Benefits of cranberries

The benefit of the berry to the body lies, first of all, in its rich vitamin composition, but no less important is the fact that cranberry is a fairly strong antioxidant, capable of stopping pathological processes and preventing the aging of the body.

Berries

The cranberry is dark red, with a dense shell. The pulp is juicy, slightly crunchy, but quite sour and even bitter.

This bitterness is due to the presence of a specific substance tannin– the strongest antibiotic of natural origin. Its ability to destroy the cells of absolutely all pathogenic microbes and bacteria has been scientifically proven.

In combination with many useful substances and compounds, it has the following effects on the body:

  • kills germs and bacteria;
  • has very high antiseptic properties - 1 glass of fresh juice can completely disinfect human urine, which allows you to achieve a quick effect in the treatment of cystitis;
  • prevents the development of scurvy, caries and other dental diseases;
  • restores the emotional background, relieves depression;
  • reduces fever and increases resistance to colds;
  • prevents the formation of cholesterol and glucose in the blood, plaques in blood vessels;
  • improves blood circulation, reduces the likelihood of blood clots.

Dried cranberries

Dried berries are more nutritious - their calorie content is 308 kcal. The concentration of minerals, unlike fresh berries, is also several times higher. Surprisingly, dried cranberries are very sweet - the characteristic bitterness is absent due to the thickening of sugars during drying.

Dried berries have a variety of uses in dishes and as an independent product:

  • to increase endurance, physical activity, performance;
  • to normalize digestion;
  • to improve mental performance.

The berry can be eaten when the acidity of the stomach is low - it normalizes it.

Cranberry juice

Fruit juice is not only a gastronomic pleasure, but also a storehouse of useful substances. It perfectly refreshes, tones, and when used systematically, removes kidney stones.

For a cold the drink has an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effect(performs the function of an antibiotic), which promotes rapid recovery.

Unlike berries, fruit juice contains fewer vitamins, but is absorbed faster.

Cranberries with honey

This combination is most popular in folk treatment. Both components have very strong antiseptic properties, which allows you to quickly eliminate many problems:

  • inflammatory processes in the liver - both components are mixed in equal quantities, taken several times daily;
  • sore throat - grind cranberries with honey (you can use juice instead of berries);
  • cranberries with honey and garlic are used to cleanse blood vessels;
  • A remedy made from honey, cranberry and lemon improves immunity.

Compote

Cranberry compote is an excellent tonic and vitamin drink. For colds, it will help relieve fever, sore throat and boost immunity. To prepare compote, you can use any berries: fresh, sugared, frozen.

Before using, it is recommended to soak fresh berries for several minutes in warm water, then rinse well with cold water. To obtain a high-quality concentrated drink, it is necessary to maintain a proportion of approximately 100 g of berries per liter of water.

Frozen cranberries

You need to defrost the berries in natural conditions (not in a microwave oven), since when exposed to temperatures, the beneficial properties decrease.

Why is it good to eat cranberries?

For each person, the berry brings special benefits.

For men

The property of cranberries to neutralize the action of microbes and eliminate the inflammatory process provides an excellent service to men in the treatment and prevention of prostatitis. Flavonoids present in cranberries (catechins and epicatechins) increase stamina, physical strength and male strength. One glass of juice daily allows you to maintain potency without the use of drugs.

Women

For a woman, cranberry helps solve two of the most important problems: normalize weight and become more beautiful. Eating fresh berries or juice slows down the aging process of cells, which affects the condition of hair, skin, and general well-being. Being a low-calorie product containing acids, cranberries promote the breakdown of fats.

For children

For children, the berry is an excellent remedy for all kinds of colds, infectious and inflammatory processes. It improves immunity well, strengthens bone and muscle tissue. For colds, it reduces cough, relieves fever, and speeds up recovery.

This is important to know! Cranberries in any form, including fruit drinks, can be given to a baby from 12 months, if he is not allergic.

Pregnant

During pregnancy, cranberry is not only a vitamin product, but also a remedy for many complications inherent in this period.

It normalizes blood pressure, relieves swelling, which often occurs in the second half of the term, and prevents the appearance of cystitis. In addition, the berry and juice increase the elasticity of blood vessels, thereby reducing the risk of developing varicose veins.

You can eat berries during pregnancy in any form, but in moderation.

Cranberry in medicine

It should be said that the properties of cranberries are used not only in folk medicine. It is part of many vitamin and immunostimulating preparations, biological supplements, and cold remedies. It is popularly used to treat:

  • viral and respiratory diseases;
  • increased nervousness, fatigue, depression;
  • digestive disorders (diarrhea);
  • withdrawal syndrome (“withdrawal” after taking alcohol or psychotropic drugs);
  • pathologies of the urinary system, including pyelonephritis;
  • stomatitis - the fruits need to be chewed or the areas lubricated with fresh juice;
  • for the prevention of cancer, thrombosis, atherosclerosis.

Cranberries in cosmetology

To maintain beauty, cranberries can be used internally and externally. If the berry, or better yet the juice, is consumed regularly, you will soon notice how the skin is renewed, freshened, and acquired a healthy color. Cranberries are able to affect the skin from the inside, renewing and regenerating epidermal cells, thereby achieving such a cosmetic effect.

As part of masks, the berry can affect the structure of the skin, tighten it, straighten it, eliminate shallow wrinkles. The juice, as well as masks made from it, are effective for problem skin: they relieve inflammation and acne - can be used during adolescence.

Due to the high concentration of acids, cranberry juice is able to restore damaged hair and nails.

Harm of cranberries

In certain situations, cranberries can be harmful to health:

  • for gastrointestinal diseases such as ulcers, gastritis, hyperacidity, heartburn - due to the acid content, the berry can provoke an exacerbation;
  • for liver pathologies, the berry should be consumed in very limited quantities;
  • When enamel and gums are damaged (caries, periodontal disease), acids can cause a lot of discomfort.

A direct contraindication is intolerance to the berry or allergy.

Source: properties of berries

Cranberry is a fairly famous berry.. It grows in swamps in the wild in the northern regions of our country. It ripens in the fall much later than other types of berries.

It has earned its popularity due to its many beneficial properties.

Cranberries are simply unique in their composition, namely the presence of vitamins and minerals in them.

The berries contain:

  1. A whole set of vitamins such as K, A, PP, groups B and C. Most of all it contains vitamin C (ascorbic acid).
  2. Minerals (potassium, calcium, iodine, iron, magnesium, manganese, copper, boron, phosphorus, sodium, zinc, silver).
  3. Organic acids. The composition contains only natural acids of plant origin (citric, ursolic, chlorogenic, benzoic, oleanolic).
  4. Antioxidants and catechins.
  5. Polyunsaturated fatty acids. They are present only in grains.

Cranberries are not even a high-calorie berry. It contains only about 30 kcal per 100 grams.

Protein, sugar, fats and carbohydrates are present in it in fairly small quantities. But it has a high fiber content.

Cranberries are valued for their many beneficial qualities for the human body. These include:

  1. Normalization of metabolic processes. Helps in removing all toxins and toxic substances from the body.
  2. Reducing high blood pressure.
  3. Strengthening capillaries.
  4. Normalizes blood cholesterol levels. Prevents the formation of blood clots and plaques in blood vessels and thins the blood well.
  5. Antipyretic and anti-inflammatory effect. Well reduces high fever during colds and flu. Helps the body fight against intoxication.
  6. Strengthening the immune system. Cranberry eliminates vitamin deficiency, being a kind of source for giving strength and vigor to the body.
  7. Prevention of the formation of malignant tumors in the body.
  8. Improved concentration.
  9. Analgesic effect for headaches or pain in women during menstruation.
  10. Strengthening the nervous system, hair and nails.

Along with other products, this berry also has its own contraindications for use. These include the following indicators:

  • cranberry allergy. It manifests itself mainly in the form of allergic manifestations on the skin. It can be in the form of a rash, redness of the skin, itching. Therefore, it is contraindicated for women during breastfeeding, as well as for children under 3 years of age;
  • presence of stomach or intestinal ulcers. as well as various types of gastritis. You should not eat cranberries during an exacerbation of these diseases;
  • low pressure(hypotension);
  • presence of urolithiasis, gout, liver diseases.

Cranberry juice must be diluted with water before use.

Cranberries are widely used in folk medicine for the treatment and prevention of various diseases.

For colds and flu

Cranberry has an anti-inflammatory effect on the body and makes a person sweat. Thanks to this, it reduces heat well.

Drinks made from it quench your thirst. For colds, you need to drink cranberry infusion.

Cooking method: Crush the berries (1 cup) and pour boiling water (1 liter). The resulting solution is brought to a boil, infused, then filtered. Drink 1 glass several times throughout the day.

For hypertension

Berries, fruit juice or jelly made from them have a good diuretic effect on the human body. At the same time, potassium is not washed out of the body.

Additionally, potassium is contained in the berries themselves. It helps strengthen the walls of blood vessels, maintains their tone, thereby helping to normalize blood pressure.

One of the recipes for a cranberry drink for hypertension: Crush 2 cups of berries, add 0.5 cups of granulated sugar, add 1 cup of water.

Stir the resulting mixture, bring to a boil and strain. Dilute the mixture in the amount of several teaspoons with hot water and drink it as tea.

Benefits for sore throat

In this case, cranberry juice is used. They can be gargled and consumed internally. To rinse, the juice must first be diluted by half with water.

When ingested, prepare the following remedy:: cranberry juice and beet juice, honey, vodka are mixed together in equal proportions.

The mixture is infused for 3 days, stirring occasionally every day. The finished composition is taken 1 tablespoon approximately an hour before meals.

Cranberry acts on the body as an anti-inflammatory, diuretic and antiseptic. The proanthocyanidin it contains prevents bacteria that cause cystitis from accumulating on the walls of the bladder.

To strengthen the immune system and eliminate vitamin deficiency

Cranberry, due to its composition, helps strengthen the immune system and saturate the human body with vitamins, especially in the spring.

Second drink option: cranberries grated with sugar (2 tablespoons) are poured with boiling water and infused. The finished drink is drunk like regular tea.

Cranberries also benefit pregnant women. This can be explained by the large amount of ascorbic acid. Vitamin C is able to protect a woman from viruses and infections at this time, helps strengthen the immune system well.

You can add a little honey to enhance the benefits. Cranberries should be consumed in this form in a 3-to-3 mode., that is, 3 days on, 3 days off.

Cranberries are also used as a means to prevent kidney and urinary tract diseases. Every month, a pregnant woman's uterus grows larger. This leads to stagnation of urine and the appearance of cystitis or urethritis.

To avoid these troubles You should drink diluted fresh cranberry juice every day. It helps improve blood flow in the placenta and maintain the tone of the blood vessels of a pregnant woman.

Pregnant women You should not eat cranberries in any form during the last stages of pregnancy.. It increases the acidity of breast milk, which is harmful to the baby. The timing of discontinuation is determined by the doctor.

Cranberries have also found their use in cosmetology. It copes well with skin diseases, such as scrofula, psoriasis, lichen, allergic skin rashes, burns. In all these cases, cranberry lotions or ointment are used.

To prepare the ointment you will need berries (2 tablespoons), petroleum jelly (50 g) and lanolin (50 g). The fruits are ground and squeezed. Vaseline and lanolin are added to the resulting juice. Stir until smooth.

Place the ointment in the refrigerator for storage.. Apply as needed, applying a thin layer to damaged skin.

In addition, cranberries are included in many cosmetic products for the face and body. It helps to gently cleanse the skin of dead cells and nourishes it.

Processing methods

Cranberries can be eaten not only in their raw form. There are quite a few ways to process it.

The most famous include:

  1. Cranberries mashed with sugar. To do this, 2 kg of ripe berries are ground using a blender and mixed with 3 kg of granulated sugar. It can be stored for quite a long time in the refrigerator or simply in a cool place.
  2. Cranberry jelly. A solution of 1 tbsp. spoons of starch and 1 tbsp. Cold water is poured into water with sugar and crushed cranberries. Cook the mixture until it thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Then juice is poured into the resulting jelly, mixed and removed from the heat. Kissel is ready to eat.
  3. Cranberry jam. It can be cooked from just one cranberry, or it can be made with various additives, such as apples. 1 kg of apples, 1 kg of berries, 2 cups of chopped walnuts are poured with pre-prepared syrup and put on low heat. Cook the mixture for 30 minutes with constant stirring. The finished jam is transferred to sterilized jars and sealed.
  4. Morse. Berries (0.5 kg) are crushed in a blender and the juice is squeezed out. Pour water into the remaining berries and boil for 5-10 minutes. The resulting broth must be filtered and the squeezed juice added to it. You can add sugar or honey to the fruit drink to taste.

Cranberries keep well even when fresh. within a few months. To store them, choose a well-ventilated and cool place.

The berries themselves must be ripe and well dried. In addition, cranberries can be frozen or dried, which increases their shelf life.

Cranberries should be present in every person's diet. It brings many benefits to humans and is a kind of natural antibiotic. But at the same time, you should not forget about some of its contraindications.

Source: usage

Cranberry is often used in folk medicine; its beneficial properties and contraindications are discussed in this article. It is sold in various forms - fresh, frozen, dried, dried. It is easier to store dried and dried berries, because you don’t even need a freezer for this (as is the case with frozen ones).

Preparing the drink

Cranberry juice, the benefits and harms of which will be discussed below, retains all the medicinal properties of the berry and has a minimum of contraindications. Suitable for both children and adults, including pregnant women. For its preparation, fresh or frozen berries are used. How to do:

  • take 1 glass of berries;
  • defrost them if using frozen;
  • squeeze the juice out of them (don’t use it yet);
  • add a third of a glass of sugar or honey to the peel of the berries (for diabetes, replace with a sweetener or omit it) and add one and a half liters of water;
  • boil the mixture for 2–3 minutes over low heat;
  • cool and add juice.

The benefits of cranberry juice according to this recipe with or without honey are maximum.

This is due to the fact that the juice does not undergo heat treatment and the vitamins contained in it are not destroyed during cooking (vitamin C is destroyed up to 90%, vitamin B6 up to 40% when boiling).

As a result, when cooking the peel, only the minimum of vitamins that remain in it are lost (10% ursolic acid). This means that the healing properties will remain.

You can prepare jelly in the same way. Dilute 1 tbsp. l. starch in a glass of water and add this solution to the peel and sugar or honey (a sweetener for diabetes), filled with water. Boil the mixture until thickened for 10–15 minutes. Then pour in the juice in a thin stream, stir and turn off the heat. This way you will be able to preserve the beneficial substances and get a drink with the usual viscous consistency.

Kissel and fruit drink are equally useful, but jelly also has an enveloping effect on the walls of the stomach and intestines, protecting the mucous membrane and preventing the development of dysbiosis.

You can add lingonberries to the juice in an amount of 1 to 1 with cranberries. Lingonberry enhances the diuretic effect, which is good in the presence of edema and sediment in the kidneys and bladder.

But lingonberries give the fruit drink a bitter taste; to improve its taste, it can be sweetened with honey.

Cranberry for immunity

The benefits of cranberries for the immunity of children and adults are explained by the vitamin C content in the berries. Fresh and frozen berries contain 15 mg, and dried and dried berries contain 0.2 mg. This vitamin strengthens the immune system and increases the human body's resistance to viruses and infections.

The daily consumption rate for women and adolescents is 70–100 mg, for men – 120–150 mg. But during an outbreak of colds, as well as during illness, it should be increased to 100–120 mg for women and 150–170 mg for men.

The consumption of berries to increase immunity is recommended for both children and adolescents, whose immunity is lower than that of adults, and for people with poor health, for example, during the period of recovery from illness. This will help avoid contracting new infections.

Honey will enhance the effect of cranberries, as it also contains vitamin C (0.5 mg).

The benefits of cranberries for pregnant women are also explained by the presence of vitamin C. During pregnancy, weakened immunity is very dangerous. Infections and viruses that a woman can become infected with will harm not only herself, but also the child.

However, the use of medications during pregnancy is limited. To keep your immunity high, it is recommended to consume more vitamin C – up to 120–150 mg.

Include more foods containing this vitamin in your diet (cranberries, lemon, spinach, black currants).

Drink fruit drink or jelly with or without honey daily, 1 glass a day (both children and adults, including pregnant women). After three days, take a break for the same period to prevent increased acidity of gastric juice and heartburn. After this, continue taking it for another 3 days.

You can stop the course after the end of the epidemic of colds or after recovery. Pregnant women should stop using it in the last weeks of pregnancy to prevent the acidity of breast milk from increasing. This can be harmful for children, as it damages the walls of the large and small intestines, as well as the stomach.

Your doctor will help you determine the timing of your appointment more accurately.

Benefits for the urinary system

The benefits of cranberries for the body of children and adults also lie in its positive effect on the urinary system and kidneys. It manifests itself in the following:

  • The acid content in cranberries (3.1 g in fresh, 0.1 in dried and dried) contributes to the acidification of urine, resulting in a decrease in the content of calcium compounds in it. It is the low acidity of urine (high content of calcium compounds) that causes the formation and growth of stones in the kidneys and bladder;
  • Cranberries (berries and juice) contain proanthocyanidins. These are natural antibacterial substances that have positive effects on health. From juice or berries that enter the stomach, they are absorbed into the body and excreted in the urine, exerting an antibacterial effect on the urinary system;
  • The mild diuretic effect of cranberries helps clear sediment from the kidneys and bladder. Lingonberry has a more pronounced diuretic effect. Adding it to fruit drinks increases the effect.

For both adults and children, you need to take cranberry juice or jelly (with or without lingonberries) in courses of 3 days, taking breaks for the same period. This way, the healing properties will be revealed to the maximum, and no harm will be done. The high acidity of the drink will not have a negative effect on the stomach and tooth enamel.

You can eat cranberries with honey (which will further increase immunity due to the vitamin C content) or without. Consuming lingonberries will additionally relieve swelling, as they have a diuretic effect.

Cranberry to normalize blood pressure

Cranberry fruit drink or jelly with or without honey is indicated for consumption by people with hypertension. This drink has a diuretic effect, relieving swelling and thereby lowering blood pressure.

Cranberry has a mild diuretic effect. Lingonberries have a much stronger diuretic effect. It can be added to fruit drinks to enhance the effect.

In this case, cranberries and lingonberries are mixed in equal proportions.

The potassium in the composition strengthens the walls of blood vessels and keeps them in good shape. This also has a positive effect on blood pressure, normalizing it.

Application in dentistry

It is recommended to consume juices, jelly and other berry drinks for gum diseases (gingivitis, periodontal disease, periodontitis), their increased bleeding (in order to prevent the development of infection), and stomatitis.

But it also tends to increase the acidity of saliva and begin to destroy tooth enamel. It is the increased acidity of saliva that causes caries between teeth. You can reduce it after drinking cranberry juice by drinking or rinsing your mouth with water with an alkaline reaction (Essentuki).

Drinking milk also helps, as it also has an alkaline reaction.

Benefits for diabetes

Cranberries can be consumed for diabetes. Its use does not cause an increase in blood glucose levels in type 1 diabetes. Eating cranberries for type 2 diabetes will not only not harm, but will also be beneficial.

This is due to its ability to regulate the functioning of the pancreas. It is this gland that produces insulin, which helps maintain normal blood sugar levels. For type 2 diabetes, regular consumption of up to 100 g of cranberries helps lower blood sugar levels.

Cranberry for men

Cranberries are beneficial for men for several reasons. Potassium has a positive effect on blood vessels, increasing their elasticity and tone, which indirectly helps improve potency.

In addition, catechin and epicatechin (organic substances present in cranberries) combine with proanthocyanidins, which are also present in the composition, and form large polymer bonds that promote vascular relaxation, similar to the drug Viagra. Cranberry is useful for men as a means of increasing potency.

When should you not eat cranberries?

Despite the fact that the benefits of cranberry juice are beyond doubt, there are also contraindications to drinking this drink. Also, in the following cases, you should not consume the berry in its pure form, juice or jelly from it:

  1. the property of cranberry juice to acidify the environment makes it unacceptable for thinned and partially destroyed tooth enamel, since consumption causes pain (when acid gets on the dentin located under the enamel, the processes of nerve cells located in it transmit an impulse to the dental nerve, provoking pain);
  2. this same property explains the contraindication to taking cranberries when the enamel is weakened, since the acid acts aggressively on it, destroying it even more;
  3. gastritis with high acidity, heartburn, ulcers are absolute contraindications to taking cranberries, their juice or cranberry jelly due to the fact that they increase the acidity of gastric juice;
  4. individual intolerance (allergy to cranberries) – contraindications to the use of its derivatives (juice, fruit drink, jelly, jam);
  5. Constant consumption of cranberry juice or jelly leads to the leaching of salts from the body, so take them 3 days in a row with a break for the same period;
  6. for diabetes mellitus, exclude sugar or honey in fruit drinks or replace them with natural sweeteners allowed for diabetes;
  7. the last weeks of pregnancy and breastfeeding are two more contraindications, since increased acidity of milk can lead to stomach problems in the child.

If cranberry consumption begins during pregnancy, it is better for the woman to first consult a doctor. Cranberries tend to mix poorly with some medications. For example, a contraindication to its use is taking sulfodrugs (antimicrobial agents, such as Dermazin, Kelfizin, Silvederm).

The benefits and harms of cranberries discussed in the article are relative. This is not a cure, but only an additional therapy. Cranberry juice with lingonberries will not relieve hypertension, but is good as an additional remedy.

Some symptoms of appearance:

  • cough does not go away;
  • weakened immunity, frequent colds, sore throat, nasal congestion;
  • weakness, fatigue;
  • nervous state, sleep and appetite disturbances, depression;
  • allergies, watery eyes, rashes, runny nose;
  • headaches and migraines;
  • alternating diarrhea and constipation;
  • I want sweet and sour;
  • bad breath;
  • frequent feeling of hunger;
  • problems with losing weight;
  • decreased appetite;
  • night grinding of teeth, drooling;
  • pain in the abdomen, joints, muscles;
  • dark circles, bags under the eyes;
  • acne on the skin.

If you have any of the symptoms or are in doubt about the causes of your ailments, you need to cleanse your body as quickly as possible.