According to statistics published in 2006 and 2007, one in five Canadians suffers from hypertension and 22.7 % of Canadian adults over the age of 20 have diagnosed hypertension (either or both of these numbers are high). 17 % of hypertensive patients remain unaware of their state of health. Often, it is possible to keep blood pressure under control through a lifestyle based on a balanced diet. According to a recent study, regularly consuming cranberry or cranberry juice reduces high blood pressure and improves blood circulation.
Cranberry: what is it exactly?
In general, the name Cranberry refers to the fruits given by Vaccinium oxycoccos and Vaccinium macrocarpon. It is a fruit belonging to the same family as the blueberry. It is found in large quantities in Canada and the United States. This fruit has many names. In Canada, it is known as "Atoca" while in other parts of North America, it is known as "big lingonberry". In English, it is called “Cranberry” and in French, “cranberry.” It is also called “Atoca” in Canada and “Grande airelle rouge” in North America.
The properties of Cranberry juice
Cranberry juice effectively fights against the accumulation of water in the body's tissues. This problem is among the main causes of high blood pressure and kidney damage. This juice is an antioxidant that contains a large amount of minerals (example: potassium), fiber and vitamins. Consumption of cranberry juice has a positive, but modest, impact on lipid balance and ambulatory diastolic blood pressure in people with hypertension. However, this does not affect central systolic blood pressure.
Are cranberries the new superfruit for fighting high blood pressure?
Cranberries from the northern region of Europe, especially those grown in Finland, are about to become the new favorite fruit of patients who suffer from high blood pressure. According to the results of studies conducted by researchers at the University of Helsinki, these berries lower blood pressure. But, before revealing the powers of this new super fruit, these Finnish scientists fed rodents only with cranberries for two and a half months. At the end of this experiment, the blood pressure of these rats had dropped considerably. In any case, the cranberries which grow wild in the forests of northern Europe contain a significant amount of flavonoids and polyphenols. Both of these compounds are beneficial for the heart.
The benefits of flavonoids and polyphenols in Cranberry juice on blood pressure
Brief information about blood pressure
For information, hypertension results from the disturbance of the balance between nitric oxide, the factors which cause the dilation of the vessels and the tightening of the caliber of the vessels, such as angiotensin. Hypertension (hypertension) is one of the most common diseases in the world. Its effects persist over time. It is characterized by very high blood pressure in the blood vessels. This scourge is the cause of various cardiovascular pathologies. Without effective medical treatment, it risks leading to a stroke in the patient.
The benefits of flavonoids on high blood pressure
Etymologically, the term “flavedo” is the origin of the word “flavonoids”. It designates the layer of orange peel that is exposed to the external environment. These compounds are involved in strengthening the tightness and elasticity of the tubes that transport blood in the body, and therefore, their resistance. They also contribute to the improvement of the dilation and irrigation of the arteries as well as the regulation of blood pressure. Flavonoids are valued for their protective actions against all disorders that affect blood vessels and the heart. They preserve lipoproteins from oxidation. Flavonoids are adaptogenic compounds that strengthen the body in its actions to compensate for stress Note that the latter is often the main source of hypertension. Undoubtedly, foods containing a large amount of flavonoids are effective remedies for hypertension. According to the results of one study, the difference in blood pressure between patients with the highest and lowest flavanol intakes varies between 2 and 4 mm Hg. who have the highest blood pressure.
The benefits of polyphenols in the fight against high blood pressure
Polyphenols belong to the family of the most well-known organic molecules. They are found in many foods of plant origin. Polyphenols contribute to the coloring of plants. These are also the compounds responsible for the aroma. When polyphenols are taken with a meal, they defend the human body against oxidation caused by bad cholesterol. This eliminates the causes of clogging in the arteries. The use of therapeutic treatments based on plant polyphenols has proven its beneficial influence in the prevention of hypertension. These compounds increase the production of glutathione and NO (nitrogen monoxide). They also improve vascular tone. In practice, this helps to lower blood pressure. The average quantity of polyphenols provided in the drinks and foods consumed daily is around 1 g per individual.
How to consume Cranberry juice?
To take advantage of its benefits, it is advisable to consume it in its pure or natural state. In reality, on the market, Cranberry juice contains flavorings and sugar likely to neutralize its natural acidity. Best to dilute it in water. Its flavor becomes very pleasant and very sweet. It can also be mixed with apple juice. We use the cranberry juice to prepare co*cktails, alcoholic or not. For adults, the daily consumption varies between 80 and 160 ml of juice.
What are the contraindications?
According to herbalists, there are no contraindications because cranberry is perfectly tolerated. Still, patients who are suffering from a gout attack should not consume it. THE Cranberries is also not recommended for patients suffering from lithiasis pathology or those who have kidney stones containing uric acid.
