Along with all the beautiful colors of fall come an abundance of cranberries, which peak from October through December. When cranberries are mentioned, people generally think of them appearing on the Thanksgiving table or fighting urinary tract infections. In reality, the benefits of cranberries should be discovered all year long.
At bare minimum, cranberries are high in Vitamins C and K, fiber, and manganese. Because of these properties, cranberries give a natural boost to the immune system and contain compounds that fight off bacteria and viruses. These same compounds are toxic to cancer cells.
Cranberries contain properties that might prohibit the adherence of E. Coli bacteria from the urinary tract, reducing the occurrence of urinary tract infections. The bacterium connected with the formation of ulcers and gastrointestinal distresses, H. pylori, finds a strong enemy in cranberries. Also, they fight off oral bacteria, which lead to cavities and periodontal disease.
Cranberries are beneficial for the cardiovascular system as well. They can both lower LDL, the “lousy” cholesterol levels, and increase HDL, the “healthy” cholesterol levels. Cranberries aid in proper blood vessel function and protect against heart attacks in individuals with existing atherosclerosis.
Stored properly, cranberries can last in the refrigerator for up to two months. Fresh cranberries can be frozen for up to a year.
Cranberry juice can be enjoyed when fresh cranberries are no longer available. Cranberry juice is best in a concentrated, unsweetened form, as most commercially prepared juices contain very little juice and high amounts of sugar.
Stevia, a naturally sweet dried herb, can be used to sweeten cranberry juice. Cranberry juice can also be mixed with other naturally sweet juices like apples.
For more interesting facts on cranberries: http://www.whfoods.com/
THREE CHEERS FOR: BURT’S BEES LIP BALMS
Given all the synthetic ingredients found in lip care products like artificial flavor and colors, petroleum-based ingredients, and even lead, it’s no wonder consumers are looking for truly natural lip products. Many are turning to Burt’s Bees for balms, shimmers, and glosses and are discovering the beauty of natural ingredients as well as healthier lips.
While Burt’s Bees uses beeswax, they believe in minding their own beeswax and cultivating only during the normal production cycle.
Check out Burt’s Bees at your local nutritional store, at http://www.burtsbees.com/, or at http://www.vitaminshoppe.com/.
GIVE ME FIVE
Five reasons to cut out caffeine:
- Produces excess adrenaline
- Contributes to heartburn
- Increases uric acid leading to kidney stones and gout
- Decreases absorption of Vitamin B
- Excretes minerals (calcium, magnesium, potassium, and trace minerals)
