.Preliminary research suggests that cranberries may be crucial ingredients in cancer prevention. Some researchers believe that cranberries interact positively with two enzymes that either create cancerous cells or help them proliferate. Others have found that cranberries contain elements that may inhibit the growth of colon or prostate cancer cells by protecting our DNA. Still other researchers believe that the quercitin in cranberries may help prevent breast and colon cancer that results from chemicals or toxins or might inhibit the growth of breast-cancer cells.
.New research suggest that elements in cranberries may help prevent atherosclerosis-the buildup of cholesterol, fat, and plaque in the arteries-which is the leading contributor to cardiovascular disease.
.Cranberry juice may help raise high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or the good cholesterol, according to research presented at the American Chemical society's annual meeting in April 2004. Dr. Joseph Vinson of the University of Scranton conducted a study suggesting that drinking three glasses of cranberry juice a day might reduce heart disease by 40 percent.
.Some scientists are beginning to explore the possibility that cranberries can help prevent the formation of blood clots and even stroke. Some animal studies also suggest that cranberries can help decrease our body's LDL cholesterol.
.Among the most potent elements in cranberries are polyphenols, a kind of plant-based antioxidant that has powerful heatlh-inducing effects. Laboratory studies have shown that 8 ounces of cranberry juice contain 567 milligrams of polyphenols-compared to 0.53 in apple juice and 400 milligrams in red wine. Just 2 ounces of fresh cranberries contain 373 milligrams of polyphenols, more than a much larger serving of oranges, broccoli, blueberries, strawberries, bananas, apples, or white grapes.
For more information about cranberries, refer to Ann Louise Gittleman's book-- The Fast Track Detox Diet.
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