Cranberries, along with blueberries and bilberries, belong to the family Vaccinium. These berries contain a remarkable supply of antioxidants, more specifically phytonutrients or anthocyanins. These are in the blue-red pigment of the fruit. They promote a reduction of free radicals that can damage cell structure causing conditions such as heart disease, glaucoma and cataracts.
Cranberries provide antibiotic qualities against E.coli, combat urinary infections and protect against plaque and tooth decay.
Blueberries protect the brain from oxidative stress and may retard the onset of such conditions as dementia. The bilberry is a great food for the eyes, it is usually taken as a concentrated extract and may benefit in cases of glaucoma, cataracts, diabetes and numerous eye disorders.