Cranberries can inhibit the growth of breast, skin, colon, lung, brain and prostate cancer cells. The antioxidants contained in cranberries reduce the levels of "bad" LDL cholesterol, while increasing the levels of "good" HDL cholesterol, which prevents the formation of atherosclerotic plaques on the walls of blood vessels. In addition, the anti-inflammatory effects of several other components of cranberries help prevent the development of cardiovascular disease.
Perhaps the best known of cranberry's health benefits is the prevention of urinary tract infections. In particular, cranberries have been shown to inhibit the adhesion of bacteria to the walls of the urinary tract.
Thanks to its antibacterial action, cranberries prevent plaque formation and help destroy Helicobacter pylori - bacteria causing chronic gastritis and peptic ulcer disease.