Even though cranberry is usually used to prepare sauces or tossed in salads, its juice has also gained popularity in the recent past. Cranberry is sour in taste; therefore, consuming it in a large amount is not everyone’s cup of tea. However, a small piece of cranberry here and there in the salad makes it flavorsome.
This small sour fruit is a rich source of vitamins and fibers. At the same time, it is full of antioxidants that offer a multitude of benefits, particularly for women. Moreover, it is reported to prevent infections related to the urinary tract.
If you wonder what other benefits it offers to females and why do girls drink cranberry juice, keep reading to find the answers!
How Does Cranberry Juice Benefit Women?
Cranberry juice is associated with a number of benefits, especially when it comes to women’s sexual and reproductive health. Even though little research has been done on this, women claim to get huge relief after consuming cranberry juice in different segments.
1. Improves Postmenopausal Health
The age of menopause could be an emotional turmoil in the life of women, thanks to abrupt hormonal changes in the body. At this time, women have to deal with symptoms such as (1)-
- Mood swings
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- Increased risk of urinary tract infections (UTI)
Fortunately, cranberry juice has been seen providing a huge relief in these symptoms, making it easy to deal with menopause.
2. Improves Sexual Health
The vaginal microbiome is directly related to women’s sexual health (2). As per a few sources, the consumption of cranberry juice improves the vaginal microbiome, which leads to better sexual experiences.
Also, it makes the vaginal secretions flavorful; however, more research is needed in this context.
3. Prevents Signs of Aging
The antioxidant-rich cranberry helps fight off the free radicals that are the major culprit behind aging. Antioxidants are powerful compounds that neutralize free radicals in the body.
Moreover, it helps to boost collagen production, which again contributes to youthful and glowing skin.
The major antioxidants present in cranberries are quercetin, flavonoids, and anthocyanins. Even though processing cranberries into juice may reduce their antioxidant content, they are still present to offer benefits.
At the same time, a cup of cranberry contains 78% of the daily value of vitamin C (3). This vitamin is equally beneficial for healthy and supple skin as it increases skin elasticity.
4. Boosts Immunity
The presence of antioxidants and vitamins makes cranberry juice nothing less than an immunity booster. It also supports heart health by reducing LDL cholesterol and thus keeping the arteries unblocked.
A test-tube study done on cranberries has indicated the presence of anti-cancer compounds like quercetin (4). It is useful in preventing breast cancer, colon cancer, and pancreatic cancer.
5. Prevents Osteoporosis
One of the common issues that women face after a certain age is weak bones, which gradually leads to osteoporosis. However, since cranberries contain a good amount of magnesium (3), which is essential for many body processes such as healthy bones and muscle function, it can prevent the condition in later stages of life.
6. Helps Manage PMS Symptoms
Magnesium in cranberries helps to manage Post Menstrual Syndrome (PMS) symptoms effectively. This mineral relaxes muscles and helps them to contract with less pain.
According to a study, women who were given magnesium supplements experienced less anxiety, depression, lower back pain, and breast tenderness during periods (5).
Can Cranberry Juice Prevent UTIs?
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most common problem among women that occur due to the E. coli bacteria. Even though antibiotics are the last resort when UTI symptoms don’t subside, prevention in the first place is considered better.
Cranberry juice contains a type of tannin, proanthocyanidins, that inhibits the growth of E. coli in the urinary tract, keeping you safe from the infection (6).
Dosage of Cranberry Juice for Women’s Health
There is no significant data indicating the optimum dosage for cranberry juice consumption. Still, drinking in moderation is a good idea. If you want to know the limit, consult a good nutritionist or dietician.
If you are taking cranberry supplements, make sure not to exceed the prescribed limit to reap maximum benefits.
Downsides of Cranberry Juice
Cranberry is a nutritious fruit with little adverse effects. However, as already mentioned, taking it in moderation will be the right choice. A few downsides of cranberry juice that you may encounter are-
- Packaged juices are high in sugar content, and it is particularly more in cranberry juice due to its sour taste. So, try to find juice that has 100% cranberry juice with less added sugar or other fruits as the first ingredient.
- Pure and unsweetened cranberry juice are expensive.
If you want to take advantage of the nutritional benefits of cranberry, its supplements can be the right choice. They contain it in concentrated form and, therefore, are more effective.
Conclusion
Cranberries are full of nutrients that can improve women’s health in different ways. From improving their sexual and skin health to providing comfort in the PMS and postmenopausal stage, this little sour fruit can do wonders. It is the reason why girls drink cranberry juice.
Even though there is little scientific evidence that supports these claims given by women, the tangy taste is worth drinking.
Image Source : freepik
