It's fall, and that means cranberries are in season. Far too often, this tart treat is overlooked as a superfood. Studies have shown that it's a berry good idea to add this fruit to your diet. A wealth of research has been done on the health benefits of consuming cranberries, and there's plenty more to come. {relatedarticles}Cranberries are rich in antioxidants, which protect cells from damage by free radicals. In fact, a 2001 study published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food chemistry found that cranberries had more antioxidant phenols than 19 popular fruits. Cranberry products are frequently used to treat or prevent urinary tract infections, as well as the buildup of dental plaque. Research has found that there are components in cranberries that prevent bacteria from sticking to the cells along the walls of the urinary tract and causing infection.
Currently, scientists are working to determine if the flavonoids and polyphenolic compounds found in cranberries prevent atherosclerosis, where bad cholesterol sticks to the arteries and causes heart disease. {relatedarticles}It's no secret that cranberries are thought to decrease the bad (LDL) cholesterol and increase the good (HDL) cholesterol, as well as reducing to tumor growth. While many people prefer cranberry juice over cranberries, why not reap the benefits from cranberries in their most basic form? Add a handful of dried or fresh cranberries to salads, cereals, oatmeal, muffins and other meals. It's important to remember that all cranberries are not created equal. Find cranberries that are shiny, hard and a deep red or brown - these are signs of freshness. These are usually tart and may go better in sauces, dressing or baked goods.