| Cranberry Extract – Powerful Antioxidant Supporting a Healthy Urinary Tract
This small, brightly-colored and tart fruit belongs to the same family as other health-friendly berries like bilberry and blueberry. Cranberries provide a rich source of antioxidants, flavonoids, and other phytochemicals shown to support human health. In fact, cranberries contain more antioxidants than 19 other commonly eaten fruits.
Cranberry is perhaps best known for supporting urinary tract health. Cranberry is thought to work by preventing harmful, infection-causing bacteria, like E. Coli, from latching onto urinary tract walls. Without the ability to attach, bacteria cannot proliferate and make mischief for healthy cells.
Cranberries Support Oral Hygiene, Gastric Health & More
Cranberry has shown to support dental health through a similar defense mechanism. By inhibiting oral bacteria, like Streptococcus, from sticking to teeth and gums, disease-causing plaque cannot easily form and cause cavities and infection.
Through a similar antibacterial mechanism in the stomach, cranberries have been shown to fend off H. pylori, the most common cause of stomach ulcers. Cranberry is thought to prevent H. pylori from sticking to stomach lining, which is particularly important in aging bodies. Sadly, it is estimated as many as 50% of people over age 60 are affected by ulcers.
Cranberry is currently being studied for its brain cell protection properties, as well as its ability to support healthy cholesterol levels by inhibiting the oxidation of LDL.
Notes:
1. If you are prone to kidney stones or currently being treated with warfarin, please consult your health care practitioner before beginning cranberry products.
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