Scientists from Pennsylvania State University in the United States found a notable health benefit in cranberries. Daily consumption was linked to a significant drop in mortality risk, with the study reporting a 31% reduction and an average life extension of about 16 years. The discovery appeared in the Nutrition Journal and has sparked interest in dietary flavonoids that occur naturally in berries.
In their eight year study, researchers tracked the health status of around 37,000 participants. The team collected detailed information about diets and their long term effects on the body. Flavonoids, the bioactive compounds abundant in berries, drew particular attention for their wide range of physiological actions. They are known to influence bile production, support antimicrobial activity, relieve smooth muscle spasms, and strengthen heart function. They may also help reduce the fragility and permeability of blood vessels, assist in removing certain radionuclides from the body, and there is emerging evidence of potential anticancer effects.
Among fruits studied, cranberries emerged as the strongest in reducing mortality risk at 31%, followed by blueberries at 21% and strawberries at 14%. The authors emphasize that fresh berries are the preferred option, but during off seasons, berries in any form offer advantages, provided they are not prepared with heavy sugar. This points to a broader message about incorporating whole fruits into regular meals rather than relying on sweetened processed variants.
In related observations, experts note that in some contexts heavy alcohol use can complicate health outcomes, with repeated alcohol-related complications including delirium tremens in vulnerable individuals. Such associations underscore the importance of balanced nutrition and mindful food choices as part of overall health strategies for diverse populations.