Cranberry juice improves good cholesterol

October 26, 2004

26/10/2004 - Cranberry juice could be just as good as red wine and

grape juice for heart health, according to scientists.

Established research shows that cranberry juice can help to ward off

urinary tract infections. But there is emerging evidence to

demonstrate the fruit's positive effect on heart health too.

A new study, presented at the Canadian Cardiovascular Society's Annual

Congress in Calgary, showed that the cranberry improves circulation by

increasing the level of HDL, or good cholesterol and acting as a

powerful antioxidant.

The 12-week study, looked at 30 men, aged 18 to 70 who were slightly

overweight, had an elevated LDL level and were not taking medication.

After taking Ocean Spray Light Cranberry Cocktail HDL cholesterol rose

by 8 per cent.

" We found that by consuming a daily glass of light cranberry juice,

the good cholesterol found in blood increased, " said Dr Charles

Couillard, lead researcher of the study and member of the Institute of

Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods of Laval University.

" An increase in HDL cholesterol is a sign that the arteries are

clearing up of the accumulated cholesterol, which is positive for

heart health, " Dr Couillard added.

Last year researchers reported on similar findings from a small study

on 19 subjects with high cholesterol. Good cholesterol levels rose by

an average 10 per cent.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death globally,

according to the World Health Organisation

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