Polyphenols In Cranberries Linked To Whole Body Health

LAKEVILLE-MIDDLEBORO, Mass.The high polyphenol content in cranberries has been linked to an array of health benefits, including cardiovascular and kidney health, according to research presented at the VI International Conference on Polyphenols and Health in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Oct. 16-19.

The conference was held at the University of Buenos Aires, where the cranberry took center stage for its health benefits, most of which are a result of the fruit's high polyphenol content. Among other commonly consumed fruits and vegetables, cranberries contain more polyphenolic antioxidants than most, including strawberries, broccoli, white grapes, bananas or apples.

Polyphenolsplant antioxidant compounds commonly found in fruits and vegetableshave been linked to several whole-body health benefits. In the cranberry, specifically, polyphenols have been shown to reduce recurrent urinary tract infections, especially in women, help promote circulation and protect the bodys cells and tissues from oxidative stress.

In fact, a cranberry juice beverage could ameliorate inflammation associated with risk for cardiovascular disease, according to research presented at the conference and published in the journal Circulation.

From in vitro to clinical evidence, there is emerging data pointing toward the ability of polyphenol-rich fruits like cranberry to support heart health," said Dr. Johanna Dwyer, Tufts University, who presented a review of evidence at the conference. There are opportunities to move this information forward and support the dialogue that polyphenol-rich foods like cranberries can be an important part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle."

Polyphenols are also found in wine and tea. The cranberry, in particular, is one of the most studied and discussed fruits, due to its health benefits and high polyphenol content.

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