Abstract
Cranberries are a rich source of bioactive compounds that comprise a healthy diet. Cranberry is abundant in nutritional components and many bioactive compounds that have antioxidant properties. Both American (Vaccinium macrocarpon) and European (Vaccinium oxycoccus) cranberry species are rich in polyphenols such as phenolic acids, anthocyanins and flavonoids, and is one of the few fruits that is high in proanthocyanidins, which is linked to many health benefits. The review systematizes information on the chemical composition of cranberry, its antioxidant effect, and the beneficial impact on human health and disease prevention after cranberry consumption, and in particular, its effect against urinary tract inflammation with both adults and children, cardiovascular, oncology diseases, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, obesity, tooth decay and periodontitis, Helicobacter pylori bacteria in the stomach and other diseases. Additional research needs to study cranberry proteomics profiling, polyphenols interaction and synergism with other biologically active compounds from natural ingredients and what is important in formulation of new functional foods and supplements.
Highlights
In North America, the ‘large’ cranberry is referred to as Vaccinium macrocarpon, and is cultivated in the northern parts of the country
Among the three cranberry species, Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait., Vaccinium oxycoccos L., and Vaccinium vitisidaea, 4624 compounds were identified with about 8000–10,000 phytochemicals found in each type [10,17]
Total phenolic acids ranged from the lowest concentration of 327 mg/100 g dry matter in ‘Pilgrim’ to the highest content of 649 mg/100 g dm in ‘Howes’ when six cultivars of cranberry fruit grown in Poland were tested [12]
Summary
In North America, the ‘large’ cranberry is referred to as Vaccinium macrocarpon, and is cultivated in the northern parts of the country. European colonists discovered the benefits of cranberry as a medicine and as a food product in North America [1] Both ‘small’ and ‘large’ cranberries have been used over several decades in North America, and some parts of Asia and Europe, to prevent or cure different diseases [3]. They are mostly known for treating or preventing urinary tract infections and maintaining the digestive system [3]. This review can help promote cranberries as functional foods for consumers interested in maintaining their well-being and reducing health risks the natural way
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