Cranberry Health Benefits: Can Cranberries Boost Gut Health? Expert Shares Benefits Of Adding It To Your Diet
Can Cranberries Boost Gut Health? (Image Credits: iStock)
Within the superfood community, cranberries are well known for their sour taste and plethora of health advantages. Although cranberries are well known for treating urinary tract infections (UTIs), a new study indicates that they may also be very important for supporting gut health. Cranberries are consumed in various forms, including dried, frozen, juice and sauce all year long.
We got in touch with a health expert who explains the health benefits of adding cranberries to your diet and how it can help in enhancing gut health.
Antioxidant Properties
Dr Mahesh Kumar Gupta, Senior Consultant – Gastroenterology Marengo Asia Hospital, Gurugram shares, “Flavonoids and polyphenols in cranberries have a remarkable assortment of antioxidants that are fundamental to their gut-friendly qualities. These potent substances are known to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities, which can aid in the fight against pathogenic bacteria in the gut while promoting the growth of advantageous ones.”
Boost Digestive System
“Cranberries support a more favourable intestinal environment in the digestive system by lowering oxidative stress and inflammation,” Dr Mahesh said.
Rich In Fibre
“Cranberries also include a lot of dietary fibre, which is an important component for healthy digestion. Prebiotic fibre provides the good bacteria in the stomach with food. Fibre feeds these microorganisms and encourages their growth and activity, which improves gut health and controls bowel motions,” he said.
A high-fiber diet has been associated with a lower risk of diverticulitis, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), among other digestive problems, Dr Mahesh added.
Lowers Risk Of UTI
Dr Mahesh explains, “Proanthocyanidins (PACs), a particular kind of chemical substance present in cranberries, are particularly noteworthy for their potential to protect the gastrointestinal tract. According to research, PACs may aid in preventing dangerous bacteria, such as E.coli, from adhering to the lining of the digestive and urinary tracts. Through its ability to prevent bacterial adhesion, PACs lower the risk of UTIs while also promoting a more balanced population of gut flora.
How To Include Cranberries Into Your Diet?
Dr Mahesh shares that cranberries have several health benefits for your gut, so you must include them in your meals and snacks regularly. For a taste and nutrient boost, add dried cranberries to trail mix, muesli and salads. For a tart twist, blend frozen or fresh cranberries into sauces or smoothies. Additionally, remember to include a glass of unsweetened cranberry juice in your daily regimen.
Cranberries definitely have a positive impact on gut health, but their benefits work best when paired with a well-balanced diet full of nutritious grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and other nutrients.
