Dried cranberries are what many would call a perfect snack; they are at once delicious and convenient. Their sweet and tangy flavour is what puts them in breakfast bowls, in salads, in trail mixes or as the star ingredient in any meal. Also, beyond the taste, they are a source of antioxidants and other nutrients, which in turn make them a healthy addition to a balanced diet.
Rich in Antioxidants
Cranberries are a source of plant compounds like polyphenols and flavonoids, which in turn are natural antioxidants. These compounds play a role in how our body processes free radicals, which in turn causes oxidative stress. For me, what I love is that they provide an easy way to add more of that great plant-based food into your diet without making health choices complicated.
Supports Urinary Tract Health
Cranberries are known to have a strong association with urinary tract health. We see that products containing cranberries may play a role in reducing the risk of repeat urinary tract infections in some people, which in large part are women who had them in the past. At the same time, though, we must note that cranberries are not to be used as a treatment for a present UTI.
Helps Support Digestion
Dried cranberries are also a source of dietary fibre, which is key for normal digestion and regular bowel movements. To that end, they may be included in your morning bowl of oatmeal, in your yoghurt, or in a self-put-together trail mix, which also will add variety to your diet.
May Support Heart Health
In research at present, we see which polyphenols in cranberries are presenting the most benefit for the heart. Also, it is known that a diet that includes lots of fruits and other produce is a healthy one for the heart, which in turn makes cranberries an easy choice to put into a meal plan along with nuts, seeds and whole grains.
A Convenient Snack
Dried cranberries’ greatest everyday benefit is that they are very convenient. They require no prep and will add flavour to what may be routine meals. Also, I am a big fan of the concept of using a little, in which you can turn a very basic breakfast or snack into something more exciting.
Choose the Right Variety
There is one important catch: Many types of packaged dried cranberries have added sugar. Also, with drying out, the fruit is concentrated, which in turn makes the portion size important. Check the nutrition label and, when possible, choose varieties with less added sugar.
Conclusion
Dried cranberries can be included in a healthy diet, which in turn gives you antioxidants, fibre, and beneficial plant compounds. Although they aren’t what I would call a wonder food, their portability and many uses in the kitchen make them a health-conscious choice for snacking. A little at a time with lots of other nutrient-dense foods is a great way to increase the variety in what you eat daily.
About the Author
