Cranberry Extract
Specifications of Cranberry Extract
Purity: Free from detectable protein and minimal benzoic acid content compared to fruit.
Moisture and Ash: Typical moisture content and ash values are not always given but generally low; extract powder is stable under standard storage.
Density: Approximately 0.43 g/cm³ in powder form.
What is Cranberry Extract
Cranberry Extract is a concentrated substance derived from cranberries, typically from species such as Vaccinium macrocarpon (American cranberry), V. myrtillus (bilberry), and V. oxycoccus (European cranberry). It is enriched in bioactive compounds, especially proanthocyanidins (PACs) and other polyphenols and flavonoids, while having very low amounts of simple sugars and organic acids like benzoic acid compared to the raw fruit.
Physical Properties
Appearance: Fine powder, usually brownish-red, purple-red, or orange in color.
Solubility: Water-soluble with high solubility, approximately 8.5 mg/ml.
pH: Often produced under acidic conditions around pH 2 during extraction.
Nutritional Information
Typical cranberry extracts are concentrated forms with low sugar and calories compared to whole cranberries but may differ in fiber and minor macros depending on processing method. They are primarily valued for antioxidant and urinary tract health properties rather than traditional nutrition.
Cranberry Extract Benefits
Cranberry Extract offers a variety of health benefits primarily due to its high content of antioxidants, proanthocyanidins, and other bioactive compounds. Key benefits include:
Urinary Tract Health: Cranberry extract helps prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) by inhibiting bacteria, especially E. coli, from adhering to the bladder walls. It may also increase urine acidity, reducing bacterial activity and odor.
Antioxidant Properties: It is rich in antioxidants that neutralize harmful free radicals, which may reduce the risk of chronic diseases and slow aging processes.
Anti-Inflammatory and Antimicrobial Effects: Cranberry compounds exhibit antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory activities, supporting overall immune health.
Cancer Prevention Potential: Limited animal and lab studies suggest cranberry extract may slow cancer cell growth and induce cancer cell death in some types such as bladder, colon, and prostate cancer, though definitive human studies are lacking.
Oral Health: Cranberry compounds can prevent bacterial overgrowth in the mouth, reducing cavities and gum disease.
Cardiovascular Support: Cranberry extract may improve cholesterol profiles by lowering total and LDL cholesterol and increasing HDL, potentially reducing heart disease risk.
Digestive and Stomach Health: It may protect against stomach ulcers by preventing Helicobacter pylori bacteria from adhering to the stomach lining.
Blood Sugar and Metabolic Effects: Some studies indicate cranberry can help improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes.
Immune System Support: Cranberry intake may boost immune responses and reduce symptoms of common infections like colds and flu.