A glass a day of cranberry juice, can
reduce cholesterol levels and slash the
risk of a heart attack.
The fruit juice also raises levels of
"good" cholesterol, in the blood by eight
percent, which can protect the body
against cardiovascular disease.
Scientists believe it as good as a glass
of red wine, for health benefits. It
improves circulation by increasing the
levels of high density
lipoproteins-"good" cholesterol-- which
carry fatty particles in the blood stream
away from the heart. A twelve week
study, by a canadian team at laval
university, in quebec, followed 30 men
aged between 18 and 70 who where slightly
overweight. In the british journal of
nutrition, rearcher, dr charles couillard
said, "we found that by consuming a daily
glass of light cranberry juice, the good
cholesterol, found in the blood increased.
An increase in hdl cholesterol is a
sign that the arteries are clearing up
accumulated cholesterol, which is positive
for heart health."
the findings follow studies showing
cranberry juice, can ward off urinary
tract infections, and cut the risk of gum
disease, and stomach ulcers.
But dr couillard added. " to maximise
the benefits of drinking cranberry juice,
you will need to get more active, and eat
less fat."
a recent laboratory study at the william
harvey research institute, at st
bartholomews hospital, in london found
that cranberry juice helped prevent
atherosclerosis.
June davison, of the british heart
foundation said. " it is well
established, that eating a diet that
includes a wide range of fruits and
vegetables is good for your heart, and can
lower your risk of coronary heart
disease."
" you should aim to eat at least five
portions of fruit and vegetables a day,
one of which can come from 100 per cent
fruit juice."
