If you're looking for a tasty and nutritious beverage to add to your diet, consider adding 3/4 cup (180 ml) of unsweetened pure cranberry juice. This refreshing drink is low in calories, with just 52 calories per serving, and packed with nutrients. Not only is it delicious, but it can also provide a multitude of health benefits.

Pure cranberry juice is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C, E, K, and potassium. It's also high in antioxidants, which can help protect your body against cellular damage caused by free radicals. Additionally, one serving of pure cranberry juice provides about 24% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin C.

In this article, we'll explore what pure cranberry juice is, why you should drink unsweetened pure cranberry juice, its nutrition facts, and its many health benefits. We'll also provide some easy recipe ideas to help you incorporate this tasty drink into your daily routine.

What is Pure Cranberry Juice?

Cranberries have been traditionally used for their medicinal properties by the Native Americans for over hundreds of years. Pure cranberry juice is made by pressing the fruit to extract the juice and then removing the pulp and skin. However, it's important to note that not all cranberry juice is created equal. Many commercially available cranberry juices contain added sugars, preservatives, or other additives, which can significantly reduce their nutritional value. When purchasing cranberry juice, always look for unsweetened, 100% pure cranberry juice to get the most health benefits.

Why Drink Unsweetened Pure Cranberry Juice?

One of the main reasons to drink unsweetened pure cranberry juice is for its nutritional value. Cranberries are packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C, E, and K, and potassium. Additionally, pure cranberry juice is high in antioxidants, which can help protect your body against free radicals and reduce your risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease. Another benefit of drinking unsweetened pure cranberry juice is its potential to prevent and treat urinary tract infections. Cranberries contain compounds called proanthocyanidins, which can prevent bacteria from attaching to the walls of the urinary tract and causing infections.

Pure Cranberry Juice Nutrition Facts

calories: 52 Protein: 0.2 grams Total Carbohydrates: 13 grams (4% of Daily Value)

Health Benefits of Pure Cranberry Juice

1. Boosts Heart Health: Pure cranberry juice is rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce your risk of heart disease by preventing the buildup of plaque in your arteries. 2. Helps Prevent Urinary Tract Infections: The proanthocyanidins in cranberries can prevent bacteria from attaching to your urinary tract and causing infections. 3. Promotes Digestive Health: Cranberry juice can help prevent and alleviate digestive issues such as stomach ulcers, inflammation, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Boosts Heart Health

Heart disease is a leading cause of death worldwide. However, incorporating pure cranberry juice into your diet can help reduce your risk. The antioxidants found in cranberries can help prevent the buildup of plaque in your arteries, which can lead to heart disease. Additionally, cranberry juice has been shown to lower levels of LDL cholesterol, also known as 'bad' cholesterol.

Helps Prevent Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common issue, especially in women, and can be caused by the bacteria E. coli. Proanthocyanidins, found in cranberries, can prevent these bacteria from sticking to the walls of the urinary tract, reducing the risk of infection. Studies have shown that drinking cranberry juice can help prevent UTIs, especially in women who have a history of recurring infections.

Promotes Digestive Health

Cranberry juice is a rich source of antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation in your digestive tract. Additionally, it contains compounds that can help prevent and fight off H. pylori bacteria, which can cause stomach ulcers. Lastly, cranberry juice has been shown to alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a common digestive disorder.

Immune System Booster

Cranberries contain high levels of vitamin C, which is a powerful antioxidant that can help boost your immune system. Additionally, the flavonoids found in cranberries can help reduce inflammation in your body and prevent chronic diseases.

Rich in Antioxidants

Antioxidants are compounds that protect your body against cellular damage caused by free radicals. Cranberries are a rich source of antioxidants, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and anthocyanins. These compounds can help reduce your risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.

May Help Prevent Cancer

Cranberries contain compounds that have been shown to inhibit the growth and spread of cancer cells, including breast, prostate, colon, and lung cancer. Additionally, the antioxidants in cranberries can help protect your cells against the damage that can lead to cancer.

May Aid in Weight Loss

Cranberries are low in calories and high in fiber, which can help you feel full and satisfied. Additionally, the vitamins and minerals found in cranberries can help boost your metabolism, which can help you burn more calories throughout the day. Some studies have shown that drinking cranberry juice can help people lose weight.

Easy Pure Cranberry Juice Recipe Ideas

1. Cranberry-Lime Spritzer: Mix 3/4 cup of pure cranberry juice with 1/4 cup of lime juice and 1 cup of sparkling water. Serve over ice. 2. Cranberry Smoothie: Blend 3/4 cup of pure cranberry juice with 1 cup of frozen mixed berries, 1 banana, and 1 cup of plain Greek yogurt. Add honey to taste. 3. Cranberry Martini: Mix 2 ounces of pure cranberry juice with 2 ounces of vodka and 1/2 ounce of orange liqueur. Shake with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass.