Scientists have isolated compounds present in cranberries
which have the special effect of preventing bacteria from
adhering to the urinary tract. These proanthocyanidins, may be
effective in preventing or easing urinary tract infections by
preventing Escherichia coli (E. coli bacteria) from adhering to
the kidney or bladder cells.
Drinking cranberry juice can work both to prevent infection and
to help control an existing problem. Recent research at the
University of Western Ontario indicates the regular consumption
of cranberry products may have a role in fighting diseases such
as cancer. Cranberries are a rich source of flavonoids which
may have anti-cancer activity. Look for cranberry juice which
is pure juice. It is not made from concentrate. It contains no
added water or other juices. Most people dilute the product to
make it palatable. With 100 percent pure juice, you have
control over what you add to the product. One litre of our pure
juice will make up to six litres of juice.
Many commercially available juices are made from concentrate
and have a small proportion of cranberry juice.
To gain the health benefits, you need at least one 300 ml glass
of 27 percent cranberry juice per day. For instance if you take
1/3 glass our juice, 1/3 fruit juice, and 1/3 water, you will
have a pleasant drink that gives you the health benefits
without the extra sugar many supermarket cranberry "drinks"
have.
The Bala Cranberry Festival will take place Oct. 12, 13 and
14.
Source: Iroquois Cranberry Growers, 2680 Iroquois Cranberry Growers Dr., Box 260, Bala, Ont., (705) 762-2354,www.iroquoiscranberries.com.
