Cranberry juice is not a new-fangled entrant as people are aware of its benefit to overcome urinary tract infections. This is only just one of the benefits of cranberry juice and many more will come in the way. The healthy and nutritious cranberry juice contains many essential vitamins and nutrients that are very much required for your overall health and well-being. Though cranberry juice is safe for people, the side effects are negligible.
White Cranberry Juice vs. Red Cranberry Juice
White cranberry juice benefits and red cranberry juice benefits don’t differ as much as one might assume. They share a similar nutritional profile, although they may differ in taste, colour, and processing patterns. Let’s take a look at some key differences and similarities between the two types of cranberry juices.
White cranberry juice is considerably less tart than red cranberry juice. It is milder and sweeter in its flavor. White cranberry juice contains slightly fewer antioxidants than its red counterpart, but it is nutritional, nonetheless. Some of these antioxidants also determine the color of the juice, which is why there are two distinct types of cranberry juice. White cranberry juice is made of underripe cranberries. This is why they are paler in color and milder in flavor.
Red cranberry juice has more antioxidants than its white counterpart, which gives it that red colour. Red cranberries are made from ripe cranberries. Red cranberry juice tastes tart and stronger than white cranberry juice.
Cranberry Juice Benefits for Females
Cranberry juice can help with the prevention of urinary tract infections, or UTIs, which are typically caused by the E. coli bacteria. This is one of the most essential elements of cranberry juice benefits for females. Cranberry juice has proanthocyanidins that prevent bacteria from latching on to the bladder walls. If you are someone who faces recurring UTIs, then cranberry juice can help reduce that recurrence. Remember that cranberry juice can only reduce the risk of developing urinary tract infections; it cannot stop an active infection. Consult your doctor if you are concerned about an infection.
The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties are part of cranberry juice benefits for females. These benefits work on the digestive health of the person. In women, cranberry juice can also support cardiovascular health, skin health, and immunity. Cranberry juice can be beneficial for managing menopause-related symptoms, too. During menopause and postmenopause, cranberry juice could support bone health, which is one of the first things affected by menopause.
Cranberry juice could potentially balance the good bacteria in a vagina. Make sure the sugar content in cranberry juice is moderate, as sugar can raise pH levels, possibly leading to a yeast infection.
Cranberry Juice Nutritional Information
Cranberry juice nutritional information includes a long list of antioxidants and essential vitamins & minerals, making it one of the healthiest juices you can add to your daily diet. Let’s look at some nutritional information about cranberry juice, going by one cup of measurement.
One cup or serving of cranberry juice contains:
- 8.35 mg of choline, which supports liver function, cell structure, and the nervous system. It improves memory and muscle control.
- 195 mg of potassium, which balances bodily fluids and minerals, regulates blood pressure, aids in muscle contraction, and makes sure there is proper nerve function in your body.
- 15.2 mg of magnesium, which supports muscle function and bone health.
- 20.2 mg of calcium, which reduces the risk of urinary stones and infections.
- 32.9 mg of phosphorus, prevents the adhesion of bacteria to the bladder wall.
- 3.04 mg of vitamin E, which supports the body on a cellular level and promotes skin health.
- 23.5 mg of vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and supports white blood cells production.
Cranberry Juice Uses
Here, we are going to mention the juice of cranberry benefits
1. Prevent Age-Related Damage
While getting older, free radicals often accumulate in your body. Free radicals may cause oxidative damage. The oxidative damage and health issues are interrelated. As a result, you may get the following diseases:
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Heart Disease
- Digestive health issues
- Urinary tract problems
Cranberry juice has antioxidants or other compounds that overpower harmful free radicals. Due to antioxidants, both cranberries and cranberry juice can prevent age-related damage to the body’s tissues.
A study was conducted in 2011 and it has been found that cranberries were significantly more powerful antioxidants than cranberry juice. But cranberry juice offers many more health benefits.
2. Improve Heart Health
Cranberries are rich in polyphenols that boost your heart health. In 2011, a study was performed on females with metabolic syndrome and it has been revealed that cranberry juice enhanced the antioxidants in the blood plasma. People who consume cranberry juice may have lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL or bad cholesterol).
Another study was conducted in 2011 and it was found that cranberry juice is effective in people with coronary artery disease. Mean carotid-femoral artery pulse wave velocity was lessened among the people who drank a laboratory preparation of cranberry juice.
A study was conducted on obese men in 2019 and it has been revealed that daily intake of a high-polyphenol cranberry beverage for 8 weeks improved multifarious risk factors for heart disease.
3. Prevent Dental Plaque
Some medical studies have also proved that drinking cranberry juice will prevent dental plaque that gets accumulated on teeth and causes gum disease.
4. Treat Or Prevent Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Cranberry juice has antimicrobial properties, and thus, it is effective against UTIs. The antimicrobial properties of the juice destroy the colonization of Escherichia coli in the bladder. E.coli is the bacteria which is responsible for UTIs.
In 2016, a study was published on Alternative therapies in health and medicine and it was revealed that bacterial infections in urine cultures from uncircumcised boys who sipped cranberry juice and had previously had repeated UTIs compared to those who drank a placebo and those who had been circumcised who also drank the placebo.
The studies concluded that cranberry juice is effective against the growth of bacterial pathogens.
5. Cranberry Juice Benefits for Stomach
Several medical studies have also claimed that phytochemicals in cranberries play an imperative role in digestive health. In the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, numerous health benefits of cranberry juice are mentioned in 2018.
The paper explained that prohibiting the production of another bacterium called H. pylori in the stomach, cranberry juice promotes digestive health. But more studies are required to establish the claim.
6. Supporting Post-Menopausal Health
If you are looking for cranberry juice benefits females, then you must be happy to know that this juice supports post-menopausal health. After menopause, the risks to the heart could be increased in manifolds in women.
Many researchers found that daily cranberry consumption minimized total cholesterol. Thus, health experts recommend cranberry as a dietary supplement after menopause.
Read More: 5 Easy Yoga Exercises for Menopause And Its Benefits
7. Fights Against Viruses and Bacteria
Chemicals in cranberries are effective against viruses and bacteria.
In 2011 a study revealed that cranberries subdued the growth of seven bacterial microbes. The study didn’t provide any information on whether cranberries or cranberry juice could prevent infection with these microbes.
Another study was conducted in 2010 and it has been established that cranberries could fight some viruses, including norovirus. But more studies are required to establish that cranberries might be useful in preventing food-borne illnesses.
8. Cranberry Juice Benefits Skin
Cranberry juice is acidic and thus, it boosts collagen production, which makes your skin soft, vibrant and glowing. Cranberry juice comes up with anti-ageing properties. If you consume it on daily basis, it will prevent the occurrence of wrinkles on the skin. To make your skin look young and scintillating, consume cranberry juice.
9. Improved Hair Growth
Cranberries are rich in vitamin A and C. Both of these vitamins are essential for your hair. Cranberry juice for your hair may repair the hair follicles. Healthy hair follicles will improve the growth and texture of the hair. Cranberry juice is also useful for treating split ends and makes your hair more shiner and lustrous.
10. Say Goodbye to Dandruff
Cranberries are popular for their antifungal and antiseptic properties. They will help you to get rid of scalp problems like dandruff and itching. If you apply cranberry juice to your hair, it will cleanse your scalp and offer all nutrients to your hair. Cranberries can be applied directly to the scalp to remove dandruff.
Cranberry Juice Side Effects
Some studies have found that cranberry juice may interact with certain drugs (cyclosporine, flurbiprofen, diclofenac, amoxicillin, cefaclor, midazolam, and tizanidine). People who are consuming these medications should consult with a doctor before drinking cranberry juice.
Side Effects of Cranberry Juice During Pregnancy
Cranberry juice has no side effects. It is safe for you and your baby. It prevents a UTI infection during pregnancy.
The Bottom Line
The above we mentioned some of the health benefits of cranberry juice. This is safe for most people, but the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting the consumption of fruit juice in toddlers and children. Choose a cranberry juice that comes up with no added sugar. You can even prepare fresh cranberry smoothies at your home. If you are planning to take cranberry supplements, you should consult a doctor before consuming them.
FAQs
How much fruit juice is generally safe to drink daily?
Most experts suggest that one glass (150 ml) of fruit juice per day should suffice. While juice contains essential vitamins, it also contains plenty of natural sugar and lacks the fiber that whole fruits have. Too much fruit juice in a day can contribute to weight gain and tooth decay. Water and whole fruits are better, with an occasional juice addition.
Is it healthier to eat whole fruits instead of drinking juice?
Whole fruits are healthier than juice in a lot of ways. For instance, whole fruits have more fiber than juice. Fiber can help slow down the absorption of sugar. Juice has plenty of vitamins that are absorbed quickly. However, it is not as beneficial as whole fruits, which support digestion and steady energy.
Can drinking juice replace drinking water?
Juice should not replace water. Juice is hydrating and has tons of nutrients. However, it also adds sugar and calories to our bodies. It increases the risk of tooth decay or blood sugar spikes. Water is the healthiest way to stay hydrated. Juice can be a treat you give yourself every now and then, but there is truly no replacement for water.
Are smoothies healthier than fruit juices?
Smoothies may be healthier than juices in terms of essential nutrients like fiber. Smoothies retain the whole fruit, including the fiber. Smoothies can help control blood sugar spikes and support digestion. These delicious drinks sometimes include veggies, seeds, and yogurt, which adds to the nutrients. Moderation is key with smoothies, just as it is with juice.
Do all brightly colored fruits have antioxidants?
Most brightly coloured fruits are rich in antioxidants. For instance, oranges, berries, cherries, etc., have high antioxidant content. Antioxidants include vitamin C, anthocyanins, and carotenoids. These compounds help protect cells from damage and support overall health. Not every fruit is equally high in antioxidants, but its colour might signal beneficial plant compounds. Eating a variety of colours is the best way to maximize nutrient intake.
What is the best time of day to consume fruit juices?
Juice can be consumed at any time of the day. There is no such thing as a “perfect” time to consume fruit juices. Ideally, consuming fruit juices in the morning along with your breakfast is a good way to start the day. Fruit juices can give you a quick energy boost, and having them as part of your first meal of the day can help your body absorb nutrients better. Pairing fruit juice with protein or healthy fats can also balance blood sugar. Avoid drinking juice late at night, as the natural sugars may disrupt your sleep. Remember, moderation is always key.
Can fruit juices affect blood sugar levels?
Fruit juices can cause a quick rise in blood sugar. They lack fiber, which is an essential nutrient that slows down the absorption of sugar. This can be concerning for diabetic patients or those with insulin resistance. Even 100% fruit juice with no added sugars can spike glucose, so small servings are best. Whole fruits are a safer choice for steady energy and blood sugar control.
