The Power of Cranberries: Preventing Bladder Infections and More

No category • February 12, 2024 By Esmee Groot Roessink • 3 minutes • 5

They are widely used in dishes around the holidays and are one of the first foods we think of when experiencing a bladder infection. We are of course talking about cranberries. But what do you actually know about this fruit? Does eating cranberries really help with a bladder infection? This is what you want to know about cranberries.

Nautical berries

Cranberries, large cranberries, swamp berries or spoon heath: these berries are originally from North America. They like to stay on acidic soil such as in the forest, on the heath or in the peat. You can occasionally find this berry in the wild in our little country, but the berries are present in large numbers on Terschelling. How do the berries get here? During seafaring, this fruit was taken on board to protect the crew against scurvy. A barrel containing cranberries that fell overboard washed up on Terschelling, after which the plant started growing on this island.

Bye bye cystitis

Cranberries were therefore taken at sea to prevent scurvy. And that is not for nothing. These berries contain a fair amount of antioxidants, vitamin C and fiber. Good for your resistance and your digestion. In addition, cranberries are known for their ability to prevent urinary tract infections. The natural substances in the berry are said to attach to bacteria and reduce adhesion to the bladder wall, reducing the risk of infections.

From juice to compote

Cranberries are often on the menu around the holidays as the icing on the cake for the Christmas dinner. They are often used in sauces, juices, jams and baking products. You can also use dried cranberries in the summer period as a snack or to top your yoghurt. This is how you make your own cranberry juice and compote.

Compote: Boil the washed berries in a small amount of water. If you want, add some sugar. After about ten minutes the berries burst. And finished! The fresh and sour taste can be combined well with pastries or crêpes.

Sap: you need a pound of berries to half a liter of water. Boil the berries for ten minutes until they burst open. Then squeeze them in a juicer or with cheesecloth. Store in clean, tightly sealable bottles.

Cranberryfestival

In some cultures, cranberries have a symbolic meaning. The berries symbolize peace and abundance. Areas that have a rich cranberry history even host annual cranberry festivals. These festivals celebrate the harvest.

Cranberries from our own garden

The cranberry plant grows in our little country. That means they can also grow in your garden! Plant the cranberry bushes in an acidic, humus-rich and moist soil. They don’t need much else. From September and October the berries turn red and you can harvest them. Get started with compote, juice, sauces and baked goods!

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2024-02-12 01:15:14
#eat #facts #cranberries