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Not only are cranberries a rich source of vitamin C and fiber, but they are also full of antioxidants, which may protect against cancer, heart disease and other ailments. 339 words.

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By Beth Nickelaid

What did the Pilgrims know that some of us still don´t? That the humble cranberry is bursting with good health.

Cranberries are among the top foods proven to make us healthier, according to Amy Howell, a Rutgers University researcher. Not only are these ruby fruits a rich source of vitamin C and fiber, but they are also full of antioxidants, which may protect against cancer, heart disease and other ailments.

One of only three fruits native to North America, cranberries have been prized for their healing properties for centuries. Long before the Pilgrims landed at Plymouth Rock, American Indians had already discovered the berry´s potential as food, medicine and fabric dye.

The new settlers soon caught on to the cranberry´s benefits, and it became a valuable commodity for trade. Packed with vitamin C, the berries also traveled with early American sailors to prevent scurvy aboard ship.

Fresh cranberries are harvested in the fall, but dried and frozen berries are available year-round, along with juices and canned berries. Fresh berries may be stored in the refrigerator for several months. Once frozen, cranberries may be kept for several years.

Useful in both savory and sweet dishes, the tart berries pack a nutritional punch.

According to a 2001 study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, cranberries had the most and the highest-quality antioxidants among the 19 fruits tested, and the antioxidants in fruits were found to be more potent than those in vegetables.

Cranberries are such powerful antioxidants, researchers have found, that they can ease brain impairment after a stroke.

Research is continuing on an array of fronts. The berries are thought to help prevent urinary tract and bladder infections and to battle the bacteria that can cause stomach cancer and ulcers. They may even inhibit the oral bacteria that cause plaque to form on teeth and gums.

With such a harvest of body benefits, cranberries deserve a place at the table year-round. Or just grab a glass of juice: Here´s to your health.

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