Cranberry sauce may not be the star of the traditional holiday meal, but when it comes to health benefits, the lowly condiment takes centre stage. Researchers have found that compounds in cranberries are able to alter E. coli bacteria, which are responsible for a host of human illnesses (from kidney and urinary tract infections to gastroenteritis to tooth decay), in ways that render them unable to initiate an infection. They have found that the compounds prevent E. coli from adhering to cells in the body, a necessary first step in infections. The researchers say the benefits appear to increase the more juice or cranberry products one consumes. So when it comes to this year’s feast, don’t spare the cranberry sauce!
Source: Worcester Polytechnic Institute, Nov 13, 2007