Under the general name cranberry, there are several shrubs from the cranberry genus (among other things, cranberries also include blueberries). But why aren’t cranberries harvested in the woods like blueberries?
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We can find cranberry cranberry in our country, but it is not nearly as widespread as its blue relatives. It is found relatively sporadically in the forests and, moreover, in the first place, it is a protected plant. That is why the so-called American cranberries, which have the Czech botanical name of large-fruited cranberry, have gained greater popularity.
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And it is these fruits that we usually buy in the form of jam, which the Czechs love as an inseparable addition to sirloin.
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Is there a difference between the fruits of the cranberry bushes? The berries of European cranberry and American cranberry vary in size and taste. American cranberries are larger and taste less pronounced than wild cranberries.
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Vitamin bombs
In the small red balls we find a high proportion of nutrients and antioxidants. They are rich in vitamins and minerals, strengthen the immune system and have antioxidant effects.
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Of the vitamins, C is placed on the first place. We know it as a capable helper in the treatment of colds, immune boosters. This powerful natural antioxidant is able to protect the human body from the dangerous effects of free radicals and infections.
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It is immediately followed by vitamin E. He also plays a significant role in the good functioning of the immune system and the blocking of free radicals. It helps to optimize the function of the hormonal system, thanks to which it can alleviate problems, especially in women during menstruation.
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You can also treat yourself to cranberries in drinks, for example as a special hot punch.
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Cheers
- The healing power of cranberries can help especially in the case of inflammation of the urinary tract. Eating a sufficient number of fruits can prevent bacteria from attaching to the walls of the bladder and urethra. This is due to the high content of proanthocyanidins, substances with the ability to bind to various bacteria, which then prevent them from adhering to the walls of the digestive tract and urinary tract and cause an unpleasant infection. This healing ability of cranberry fruits has been confirmed by scientific research and is also used by the pharmaceutical industry in drugs against inflammation and urinary tract infections.
- With regular use of cranberries, we can prevent both inflammation and improve the spontaneous leakage of urine or alleviate prostate problems.
- In addition, cranberries are credited with the ability to prevent some types of cancer.
- The polyphenols contained in the fruit reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. They are said to prevent the accumulation of platelets and lower blood pressure.
- They have a very low energy value, so dried and unsweetened are a great alternative to unhealthy “beaking”.
However, patients taking blood thinners (eg warfarin) should be careful. Cranberries could reduce the anticoagulant effect of the drug and cause bleeding.
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In what form?
Cranberries are among the minimum fruits that are not good at all syyrova and can be consumed only after heat treatment or dried. In addition to dried, they are sold as compote or jam and also as juice. Always pay attention to the amount of sugar added.
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- Add dried cranberries to cereals or oatmeal. They will be great in muesli, sweet breakfast porridges, they can be added to yogurt, they will replace raisins in pastries and cottage cheese.
- They add great taste to game sauce.
- You can also indulge in drinks, whether it’s dancing cranberries in sparkling wine or making punch special.
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