What is cranberry and what are its health benefits?
Cranberry is a small red berry from thecranberry bush, a member of the Ericaceae family. It is recognized for its many medicinal virtues and antioxidant-rich nutritional profile. Thanks to its high content of flavonoids, polyphenols and vitamin C,cranberry has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and diuretic properties.
Here are just a few of its key benefits:
- Improved urinary health:Bilberry is often used to prevent and treat urinary tract infections, thanks to its compounds, which prevent bacteria from adhering to bladder walls.
- Boosts the immune system: Thanks to its high concentration of vitamin C, it stimulates the production of white blood cells, essential for fighting infection.
- Powerful antioxidant action: It combats oxidative stress and protects cells against premature aging.
- Improved digestion: The dietary fiber contained incranberries promotes regular intestinal transit and reduces bloating.
- Cardiovascular support: It helps reduce hypertension and improves blood circulation, contributing to better cardiovascular health.
Is lingonberry effective against urinary tract infections?
Yes,lingonberry is one of the most highly recommended natural remedies for preventing and treating urinary tract infections. Its active compounds, notably proanthocyanidins, prevent Escherichia coli, the bacteria responsible for the majority of urinary tract infections, from clinging to the bladder walls. This protective action reduces the risk of recurrent cystitis and is a natural alternative to antibiotics.
What's more, its diuretic properties promote theelimination of toxins via the urine, helping to cleanse the urinary tract and maintain good kidney health.
How to consume bilberry to benefit from its health-giving properties?
Cranberries can be consumed in a variety of ways to take full advantage of their therapeutic benefits:
- In juice: lingonberry juice is one of the most popular forms. We recommend drinking one glass a day, preferably in the morning on an empty stomach, to optimize its effects on urinary tract infections and immunity.
- Food supplements: Cranberry capsules or standardized extracts are a practical and effective solution, especially for those who want a higher concentration of active ingredients.
- As an infusion: Cranberry tea helps relieve digestive disorders and stimulatesrenal elimination. To prepare, simply infuse a tablespoon of dried berries in a cup of hot water for 10 minutes.
- Fresh or dried: added to yoghurts, salads or desserts,cranberries add a tangy note and a natural source of antioxidants.
Are there any contraindications or side effects?
Althoughbilberry is generally well tolerated, it is important to respect recommended dosages to avoid certain undesirable effects.
Here are the main precautions to take:
- Excessive consumption of cranberry juice may lead to digestive disorders, such as diarrhoea or abdominal pain.
- People on anticoagulants should be vigilant, ascranberry could potentially interact with these drugs and increase the risk of bleeding.
- Pregnant or breast-feeding women should seek the advice of a health professional before consuming cranberry-based supplements.
- Aslingonberry is rich in oxalates, it can promote the formation of kidney stones in people predisposed to this condition.
What's the difference between lingonberries and cranberries?
Although often confused, cranberry and bilberry are two distinct plants belonging to the same Ericaceae family.
The main differences between these two berries are..:
- Botanical origin:Bilberry belongs to the genus Vaccinium myrtillus, while cranberry is derived from Vaccinium macrocarpon.
- Appearance and taste:Lingonberries are generally smaller and less acidic than cranberries, which have a more pronounced, tart flavor.
- Specific benefits: Although both have similar properties, cranberry is particularly well-known for its action against urinary tract infections, whilelingonberry is used more for its digestive and antioxidant virtues.
Where can I buy quality cranberry products?
To benefit from all the cranberry 's virtues, it's essential to choose quality, organic products. You can find :
- Dietary supplements in pharmacies and parapharmacies, in the form of capsules or standardized extracts.
- Organic cranberry juice in specialized stores or online.
- Dried berries in organic grocery stores, ideal for infusions or cooking.
