Cranberries

Photo Credit:Al-Hadeeqah HA
They can be made into a relish, consumed as a refreshing beverage,  or even enjoyed raw.  The tart cranberry is one of the many products included in the autumn harvest.  On the East coast,  they are in season from September to December. Because it lacks sweetness, many people don't experience the health benefits of cranberries as they were once revered for.

Cranberries are native to North America and were used by the Native Americans as food, medicine, and dye. The top three states that currently grow cranberries are New Jersey, Wisconsin, and Massachusetts.
The cranberries grow in bogs on an evergreen vine that is neither a tree nor bush. These perennial plants take 16 months to grow. Water is essential for the success of the cranberries. The bogs are flooded twice a year; once in the winter to insulate the vines and protect them from the winter frost and a second time in the Autumn season (the following year) for harvesting. [1,2]

Health Benefits


Cranberries contain soluble and insoluble fiber making it ideal for digestion. Much of the benefits are located in its crimson-pigmented skin. These compounds found in the skin are an excellent source of antioxidants that have a positive impact on cardiovascular health.
 One of the most abundant antioxidant-acting polyphenol in cranberries is quercetin. These small fruits are actually considered to be one of the top food sources to attain it. Getting quercetin in your diet can help with many conditions such as allergies, asthma, stomach ulcers, high blood pressure and various infections ( just to name a few) [3]

To attain these benefits, its best to eat the fruit uncooked and unadulterated as the effects are greatly reduced when cooked.

One of the most popular remedy cranberries are known for is the prevention of UTIs (urinary tract infections). It achieves this by preventing certain bacteria from attaching to the walls of the urinary tract. [4,5,6]

Cranberries contain various amounts of vitamins and minerals; from the most abundant vitamin is vitamin C. It can help improve iron absorption, lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and strengthen the immune system.
One of the most plentiful minerals is manganese. This mineral metabolizes carbohydrates, cholesterol, and protein. Manganese is also active in the production of collagen and plays an important role in wound healing. [7]

Selection and Storage

When choosing your cranberries, look for vibrant, opaque berries that have luster. If you are able, see if they bounce! Soft and spoiled cranberries cannot bounce and will appear translucent. 

Fresh cranberries can be stored in a well-ventilated bowl,  away from excess moisture. You can also store them in the freezer for long-term usage.
Because cranberries are a naturally tart fruit, many cranberry products have added sugars to make them palatable. It's best to purchases whole cranberries yourself and make homemade relishes or dishes to avoid the excess sugar intake. (Check out this amazing cranberry chutney recipe here!)

Caution: Cranberries, when consumed in high amounts, may increase the risk of kidney stones to those who already are at high or moderate risk. [8]



  • All product reviews are based on my experiences. Please be advised that everyone may not have the same experience. I am not affiliated with any product or marketing unless otherwise noted. Please check with manufacture disclaimers prior to use of any product.
  • All advice, information, and remedies should be taken into severe consideration. Please contact your health practitioner or holistic practitioner if you are struggling with a disease or currently taking any form of medication, pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • These statements-unless otherwise noted- have not been evaluated by the FDA 

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