Cranberries may be among the healthiest fruits your dog can eat. They contain one of the highest concentrations of antioxidants of any fruit, which help protect cells against free radical damage and aid in the prevention of chronic disease.
Cranberries are a good source of a few vitamins and minerals, and exceptionally rich in several unique plant compounds including polyphenols.
Some of these may be useful as a prevention against urinary tract infections, stomach cancer, and heart disease.
7 Science Informed Reasons to Include Cranberries in Your Dog’s Diet:
- Carbohydrates and Fibre – carbs and fibres are the main nutritional components of cranberries. (2)
- Rich Source of Vitamins and Minerals – cranberries are a rich source of several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, E, and K1, manganese, and copper.
- High Levels of Bioactive Plant Compounds and Antioxidants, particularly Flavonol Polyphenols – some of these, such as the A-type proanthocyanidins, may be useful as a prevention against urinary tract infections. Others include Quercetin, Myricetin, Peonidin and Ursolic acid which have powerful anti-inflammatory effects. (3, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)
- May Reduce the Risk of Urinary Tract Infections – cranberry supplements may reduce the risk of getting urinary tract infections. (14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28)
- May Reduce the Risk of Stomach Cancer and Ulcers – cranberries or cranberry juice may cut the risk of stomach cancer, if consumed regularly. (37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, 44, 45)
- May Support Cardiovascular Health – cranberries contain various antioxidants that have been shown to have beneficial effects on several risk factors for heart disease, including cholesterol levels and blood pressure. (46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55)
- May Act as a Natural Probiotic – supporting the natural bacteria which grow in the human gastro-intestinal tract and killing off the bacteria which promote infections and foodborne illnesses. (56, 57)
