Dried Cranberries Benefits
May avert in Urinary Tract Infections (UTI’s)
Dried cranberry consists of a very important antioxidant called as proanthocyanins (PACS). This powerful antioxidants act in such a way that it prevent the bacteria causing UTI's from attaching itself to the walls of the urinary tract. These, do consist of both, the good and the bad bacteria entering the body system. The main cause is the bad bacteria, which results all these UTI's! And urinary tract infections are very uncomfortable. Dried cranberries can help ease the pain. Consuming fresh unsweetened fresh cranberry juice can also help to an extent.
Can help reduce Heart related Disorders
Dried cranberries contain polyphenols which have anti-inflammatory properties. These anti-inflammatory properties of dried cranberries can help lower heart related conditions such as hypertension. Hypertension is a leading problem in recent times and must kept under control to prevent further damage in the future. Consuming dried cranberries can help in lowering blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels.
Beneficial in Oral Hygiene
Since dried cranberries contain compounds of PACs, it prevents bacteria from sticking to your urinary wall, the same way dried cranberries benefits tooth-decaying bacteria to stop allowing it to stick to your teeth. It will not only help protect your teeth from tooth decay but will help in prevention of other problems like bad breath and keep gums strong and healthy.
Can improve Renal Function
Kidney stones and gall bladder stones, both painful and uncomfortable are sometimes hard to diagnose. We only come to know once we feel the pain, which then become unbearable. Dried cranberries being rich in antioxidants and citric acid can help in aiding kidney stones and bladder related problems. Cirtic acid helps in the prevention and formation of kidney stones.
Weight Loss Prevention
In weight loss, calories play an important role. These calories need to be burnt according to your age, gender, weight and lifestyle. Calories are found in almost all meals and must be kept under control. A serving of dried cranberries contain just 130 calories! These cranberries are loaded with fiber and antioxidants that will help keep your belly filled for a much longer time. These can be consumed as a snack as well.
Gives you Flawless Skin
Delicious dried cranberries have high contents of antioxidants , amino acids and hydroxyproline which are required for collagen building. These dried cranberries benefits you by adding smoothness, suppleness and radiance to the face.
How many Dried Cranberries should I eat a Day
One serving of dried cranberries or a quarter- cup is beneficial in helping a daily does of antioxidants and amino acids. A cup of raw cranberries contain 46 calories. Consume as a snack or include in different recipes or as mentioned above our cranberry orange granola.
How to Use Dried Cranberries instead of Fresh
You can definitely use dried cranberries instead of fresh. You will need to add a tad bit of liquid to your recipe because of the water content in the fresh cranberries. This will also depend on your recipe. Dried cranberries tend to be sweet and their flavor is intense. Fresh cranberries are tart. This will impact the flavor and sweetness of the item. For a cup of fresh cranberries you would need, measure out ¾ cup of the dried version. Place the dried cranberries into a glass bowl.
How to store Dried Cranberries
By dehydrating cranberries, you are extending the shelf life, but keep a check to see how much longer time it might take to get spoilt. If you choose to store cranberries in the pantry, you can expect them to remain between 6 to 12 months. If you choose to store cranberries in your freezer, you can expect them to last for many years as possible.
But please remember, the longer you leave cranberries stored, the more their quality will deteriorate in terms of taste and color. It will still be safe to consume.