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More Research on the Heart Health Benefits of Cranberry Fall's favorite berry boosts good cholesterol Quebec, October 24, 2004–New findings reveal that fall’s favorite berry, the cranberry, boosts good cholesterol and shields the heart with its unique antioxidant power. For years, red wine and grape juice have been touted as heart health drinks. But now, scientists are discovering that cranberry juice may also be good for the heart. According to recent clinical results conducted at the University of Laval in Quebec City, Quebec, a daily serving of low calorie cranberry cocktail may improve circulation by increasing the level of HDL (good cholesterol) by 8 percent on average, and by acting as a powerful antioxidant. The 20-week study, presented at the Canadian Cardiovascular Society’s Annual Congress in Calgary, Alberta, looked at 30 men, aged 18 to 70 who were slightly overweight, had an elevated LDL (bad cholesterol) level, were not taking medication and were given low calorie cranberry juice cocktail. “These study results are very promising, suggesting a cardiovascular benefit with regular consumption of low calorie cranberry cocktail as a result of significant increases in HDL or good cholesterol,” says Dr. Charles Couillard, the lead researcher of the study and a professor at the University of Laval. “Increasing HDL or good cholesterol is imperative to overall heart health since it actually helps to sweep away LDL or bad cholesterol which can clog arteries,” says Dr. Couillard. “Although this research suggests a role for cranberries, including cranberry cocktail in preventing heart disease in men, the results should be considered preliminary. We will be conducting more research to firmly establish the cranberry as another dietary option to promote heart health.” The Canadian study was funded in part by the Canadian Cranberry Growers Coalition, and supports earlier findings from Vinson (2003). It is in addition to a recent laboratory study at the William Harvey Research Institute in England, which found that a serving of cranberry juice each day could be as good for the heart as red wine – without the drawback of alcohol. Scientists tested cranberry juice cocktail (CJC), low calorie CJC, a California merlot and an Argentine cabernet sauvignon and found similar results promoting healthy blood flow among all beverages, suggesting cranberry’s positive effect on heart health. This recent study builds on earlier work published in the journal Nature that explained how red wine provides heart health benefits. According to the American Heart Association (AHA),
cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of women and men
in the US. The AHA recommends a healthy diet and regular exercise
to help combat heart attacks, and recommends against more than
one serving of alcohol per day. The growing collection of research
findings suggest that a daily glass of low calorie cranberry juice
cocktail promotes healthy blood flow and protects the heart – with
fewer calories than red wine – making it a delicious option
the whole family can enjoy. |