Cranberry juice is a wonderful natural remedy for many ailments. It can be used in the treatment of urinary tract infections, kidney stones, respiratory problems and cancer. It is also recommended for dental problems and is effective in the prevention of heart disease. Cranberry juice is rich in nutrients and contains vitamin C, calcium, manganese, potassium, sodium, phosphorus, dietary fiber, beta carotene and vitamin A. Perhaps the most popular use of cranberry juice is in treating infection of the urinary tract. When cranberry juice is taken in its purest form and without addition of sugar or sugar supplements, it helps in the production of hippuric acid in the urine, which increased acidity in the urine, thereby making it difficult for the bacteria to attach themselves to the bladder walls. A glass of cranberry juice taken daily will help greatly in protecting against infection and formation of cysts. Cranberry juice also contains proanthocyanidins which are strong antioxidants and thus prevent spread and growth of bacteria.
Cholesterol levels are also regulated by the intake of cranberry juice as it helps in reducing bad cholesterol levels (LDL) and increasing good cholesterol levels. The polyphenols present in cranberry juice help to prevent the harmful effects caused by free radicals. Consumption of cranberry juice also provides dental protection as the chemicals contained in it restrict the bacteria from infesting the teeth, thereby preventing plaque from forming. As such cavities in the teeth are also prevented. Research has shown that the proanthocyanidins present in cranberry juice help to restrict the growth of cancer cells. The growth of these cells is aided by the formation of micro tumors in the blood vessels. Cranberry juice prevents this from taking place. It also contains chemicals that restrict the spread of cancerous cells that are responsible for breast cancer.
Cranberry juice is rich in vitamin C and this helps in strengthening the immune system against viral infections such as the common cold and flu. Sore throats are also alleviated by the intake of cranberry juice. The juice is high in the content of organic acids which are known to emulsify the fat that is stored in the body. This helps to shed excess weight and is thus beneficial for good health. Cranberry juice is also known to restrict the growth and spread of bacteria that cause infections of the respiratory tract and ears. Kidney stones are also prevented by drinking cranberry juice regularly as it is high in acidic components which disallow the formation of stones. Calcium is essential for the health of the bones and teeth and cranberry juice is an important source of it.