text: Health Benefits of Cranberry Juice
  With their deep, rich red color it is no surprise that cranberries are high in antioxidants. Second only to blueberries in antioxidant capacity, a cup of cranberries has a total antioxidant capacity of 8,983. Antioxidants are responsible for fighting free radicals which may cause damage which leads to heart disease, cancer, and other diseases.
  Frozen cranberries are available year round while fresh cranberries are sold during the fall and winter months. While eating cranberries is an excellent option for enjoying the health benefits, most prefer the convenience of drinking cranberry juice.
  Pure cranberry juice is the best choice when considering juice options, however pure cranberry juice can be quite tart in taste. Cranberry juice blends are very common just be careful to choose a blend that is low in sugar.
  Prevents Urinary Tract Infections
  According to this article, cranberry juice may help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women, particularly in those that are highly susceptible to these types of infections. Also according to the same article, a scientific study published n the Journal of Urology found that cranberry juice changes the structure of e.coli the main culprit in UTIs an prevents it from attaching to the lining of the urinary tract.
  Promotes Digestive Health
  In a May 2008 article in Nutrition, researchers found that cranberry juice slowed the growth of a bacteria called Helicobacter pylori, the bacteria responsible for stomach ulcers and a risk factor for gastric cancer. This article show that cranberry juice is effective at preventing bacteria from attaching to the stomach wall and causing damage. Cranberry juice also helps maintain the levels of beneficial bacteria, particularly in the mouth. The antioxidants in cranberry juice according to an article in the Journal of the American Dental Association may prevent periodontal disease. If oral bacteria can not stack to teeth and gums, periodontal disease will not develop.
  Helps Fight Cancer
  Numerous scientific studies including a June 1996 Plant Medica and The Journal of Nutrition indicate that the antioxidants in cranberry juice may help prevent certain types of cancers including prostate, lung, breast, colon and other tumors.
  Lakewood Organic Cranberry Juice is my favorite brand of organic cranberry juice. There are numerous juice blends as well as pure cranberry juice available depending on your tastes.
  I hope you are enjoying my 31 Days of Healthy Living Tips series.