One Handful Of Cranberries For 2 Weeks Improve Gut Health

Cranberries contain phytochemicals that can alter proteins and natural bacteria in the gut which can improve overall health.

One handful of sweetened dried cranberries everyday could positively influence the gut microbiome.

Given the emerging knowledge that many biological functions, including immunity and disease-fighting capabilities, depend on a healthy gut microbiome. After just two weeks and with only 10 subjects, the differences were statistically insignificant but according to the researchers, the role of dried cranberries in gut health may be worth further exploration.

Health Benefits of Cranberries
Cranberries are little red berries that are high in nutrients with calories as low as 25, per serving. Cranberries help prevent urinary tract infections, reduce bad cholesterol, cure gum disease and boost your immune system. So, let’s grab a handful of cranberries for better health.

‘A typical serving of sweetened dried cranberries of 42gms could alter a myriad of proteins and natural bacteria.’

"The aim of our prospective study was to determine if just one addition to the diet - a typical serving of sweetened dried cranberries - could alter a myriad of proteins and natural bacteria in the urinary proteome and fecal microbiome," explained lead author, Dr. Jess D. Reed.

"Previous investigations showed that cranberry compounds influenced gut health. Similarly, our findings were positive, albeit statistically insignificant, but motivate us to continue exploring."

The team sought to determine if daily consumption of sweetened dried cranberries changed the urinary proteome and fecal microbiome with a prospective sample of 10 healthy individuals. Baseline urine and fecal samples were collected from the subjects in a fasted state (8-12 hours).

Cranberries Prevent Urinary Tract Infections
Cranberry products aid in preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs) and are advised by the doctors as as first line of defense against UTIs.

The subjects then consumed one serving (42g) of dried cranberries daily with lunch for two weeks. Urine and fecal samples were collected again the day after two weeks of dried cranberry consumption.

"This trial only scratches the surface of the potential role of cranberries in whole-body health," adds study author, Chris Krueger. "These results give us another reason to delve deeper into the diverse effects cranberry compounds have on the human body."

New Study Shows How Cranberries Impact Infection-causing Bacteria
Recent study has shed light on the biological mechanisms by which cranberries may impart protective properties against urinary tract and other infections.

"We are pleased that scientists are taking a fresh look at cranberries," says Terry Humfeld, executive director of The Cranberry Institute - a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting cranberry research and education. "We are especially encouraged by this study and the potential that dried cranberries could have on gut health."

Source-Eurekalert

How Compounds in Cranberries Help Fight Infections
Cranberry juice compresses the tiny tendrils (known as fimbriae) on the surface of the E. coli bacteria that enable it to bind tightly to the lining of the urinary tract.