SuperFood: Cranberries

SuperFood: Cranberries

This Christmas essential contains exceptionally high levels of antioxidants (they only rate second to blueberries) and are tasty fresh, frozen and dried. The combined cocktail of phytonutrients in cranberries deliver an incredible health-giving boost and have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. They have been used to prevent and treat urinary tract infections, and decrease the risk of urate kidney stones. Their anti-inflammatory properties can lower the risk of periodontal gum disease among other chronic inflammation in the stomach, colon and cardiovascular system. Most importantly, cranberries offer cardiovascular protection and can help lower bad LDL-cholesterol while helping to increase good HDL-cholesterol.

When selecting fresh cranberries, pick fruit that are firm and shiny. Avoid berries that are shriveled or have brown spots. Store fresh cranberries for up to two months in a tightly sealed bag placed in the refrigerator. But be sure to remove any soft cranberries as decay spreads quickly.

There are a great number of ways to incorporate these nutritional powerhouses into everyday meals. Toss a handful of dried cranberries into your granola, breakfast cereal or salad; stir fresh or frozen cranberries nto cupcake batter; pair cranberries with chicken and pork dishes; or simply smear cranberry sauce into a turkey sandwich!

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