From juice and jelly to cookies and scones, cranberries are enjoyed in a variety of forms, which comes as no surprise considering that they are packed with fiber, vitamin C, and manganese. They’re also known to help with aging. With October being National Cranberry Month, it’s the perfect time to add more cranberries to your diet. Over the years, studies have found the various health benefits of cranberries. For instance, researchers have found a connection between low-calorie cranberry juice and low blood pressure. And past cranberry studies have also shown a reduction in urinary tract infections and stroke damage. Interested in learning more?
Listed below are three additional health benefits of cranberries to help you age mindfully.
For your skin
Cranberries have antioxidant properties that can help the skin. With a few ingredients in your fridge, you can transform your cranberries into the perfect DIY facial. Combining fresh cranberries, seedless grapes, lemon juice, and gelatin and applying it to your face will help remove dead skin while also softening the area. Don’t want to make your own product? Burt’s Bees makes a cranberry and pomegranate sugar scrub that polishes and smooths the skin.
For brainpower
In addition to better skin, researchers have found evidence that cranberries can help protect the brain. In a study of rat brains, researchers found that cranberry compounds protect the brain cells from oxidative stress. Boost your brainpower by regularly drinking cranberry juice or use cranberry juice to make a brain boosting morning smoothie.
For arthritis
According to the Arthritis Foundation, over 50 million people (children and adults) have arthritis and it can have a major impact on people’s lives far beyond health consequences. For instance, the foundation found that people with arthritis are less likely to be employed due to pain. Fortunately, cranberries can help with arthritis conditions. Cranberries have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce the pain associated with arthritis. Cranberries can also help fight bacterial infections, which can contribute to rheumatoid arthritis. So consider making cranberries a part of your regular arthritis management. Try eating dried cranberries or cranberry muffins or energy bars as a snack.