Dried Cranberry - Benefits

Benefits

Dried cranberries contain the same nutrients as fresh cranberries (notably dietary fiber and antioxidants). However, commercial drying processes substantially reduces the amount of vitamin A and vitamin C. The nutrient density is also reduced if sugar is added.

The nutrition facts for 1/3 cup (40 g) of dried cranberries are as follows:

Calories: 123 kcal Fat: 0.6 g Sodium: 1 mg Total Carbs: 33 g Dietary Fibre: 2 g Sugars: 22 g Protein: 0 g

Dried cranberries contain no cholesterol, saturated or trans fats. Consuming dried cranberries will supply very little amounts of an individual's daily requirement for vitamins and minerals. The most substantial daily amount supplied is the mineral is manganese at 5% daily recommended intake. Having 1/4 cup of dried cranberries will supply one serving of fruits and vegetables. The Canadian food guide recommends 7–10 servings of fruits and vegetables daily to reduce stroke, heart disease, cancer risks. In Canada, Ocean Spray "Craisins" are given the Health Check symbol. This symbol is only given to food products that meet the registered dieticians nutrient requirements. In Canada, Craisins are also considered to be a nut free product. However, in the United States, Craisins are not considered to be a nut free product because of their Trail Mix product that includes nuts.

Cranberries with minimal processing contain the highest amount of antioxidants. However, antioxidants still remain in dried cranberries. Some antioxidants include phenolic acids, flavinoids, proanthocyanidins, and anthocyanin. All are important anti-inflammatory compounds. It is the anthocyanin that provides pigment to supply cranberries with their robust red color.

The added sugar can be a drawback for this product. Essentially, the sugar is added to improve texture, water content, and to reduce tartness. Dried cranberries made with less sugar may be helpful for individuals with Type 2 Diabetes. Because less sugar is added, there is a lower glycemic index and thus less of an insulin response occurs. Although, this has not been the case in recent studies of participants with higher response times on glycemic intake/glucose output testing batteries.

Cranberries also have an anti-adhesion quality that keeps certain bacteria from sticking to cells in the urinary tract, the mouth and stomach. They reduce the occurrence of urinary tract infections.