Most of us don’t think about cranberries until Thanksgiving rolls around and the traditional can of cranberry sauce makes an appearance. However, cranberries are a beneficial food to consider adding to your diet year-round. Although fresh cranberries may only be in season during the fall, they can be easily frozen or enjoyed dry or in juice form. Just remember to read labels carefully on juices and dried cranberries, as these often contain loads of added sugar that can offset their health benefits.
What’s so great about cranberries?
Cranberries are a nutritional powerhouse containing plenty of fiber, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, and manganese, along with antioxidants like a-type proanthocyanins. The most well-known health benefit of cranberries is their ability to help prevent urinary tract infections, but they can also improve digestive health, lower cholesterol, and even prevent certain types of cancer.
How to enjoy cranberries (without overloading on sugar)
Cranberries are naturally very tart, so they may not be palatable to enjoy as a fresh fruit. Additionally, many products containing cranberries—including dried cranberries—contain lots of added sugar. To enjoy the health benefits of cranberries without as much sugar, try these tips.
- Add unsweetened cranberry juice or frozen whole cranberries to fruit smoothies.
- Enjoy dried cranberries alongside low-sugar foods like salads and or a handful of lightly salted nuts.
- Make your own cranberry sauce to cut the sugar content or try a cranberry apple relish.
- Enjoy a splash of cranberry juice cocktail with soda water to reduce the concentration of sugar.
- Use unsweetened cranberry juice in savory sauces and salad dressings.
Looking for more healthy eating ideas to boost your health and wellness? Browse the Walmart Health Virtual Care blog for healthy recipes, food facts, and diet trends.
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