4. Cranberries

One cup of cranberries provides 22% of our daily requirement of vitamin C and 18% of our requirement of fiber. Raw cranberries have a relatively high ORAC value of 9584 which means that they are capable of destroying the free radicals that damage our DNA and predispose us to various diseases and cancer. However, cranberries primary claim to fame is their ability to prevent recurrent urinary tract infections in women. Cranberries also have been used to treat cardiovascular, various cancers and dental conditions. The treatment of urinary tract infections Recurrent urinary tract infections are a common problem in adult females. This is especially true for females who suffer from urinary incontinence and must wear diapers. Cranberries contain high levels of proanthocyanidins which prevents the adhesion of common bacteria to the bladder wall which makes it difficult for the bacteria establish themselves on the bladder wall. Unfortunately, it takes very high concentrations of proanthocyanidins in the urine to achieve this goal. Such levels cannot be achieved by drinking the cranberry juice we buy at the supermarket. Thus, with respect to the treatment or prevention of urinary tract infections, the beneficial effects that can be derived from cranberries can only be achieved by eating the fresh or dried berries or by consuming cranberry capsules. Cardiovascular disease Some evidence suggests that the polyphenols in cranberries can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by preventing platelet build-up and reducing blood pressure. Cancer Research has shown that the ingredients in cranberries slow tumor progression in people with prostate, liver, breast, ovarian and colon cancers. Dental The same proanthocyanidins in cranberries that help prevent urinary tract infections also improve oral health by preventing bacteria from binding to the teeth and gums. Propagation Cranberries are difficult to grow from seeds but relatively easy to grow from cuttings.