October is Cranberry Month! Cranberries were one of those fruits that my family did not eat very often. Several years ago my step-dad was reading a mystery book and found a recipe for “Killer Cranberry Scones” – the main character in the book was known for these. When he found the recipe in the back of the book he asked me to make them for him. Everyone loved them, and ever since I have tried many recipes using cranberries.
Now is the time of year when cranberries are in season. If you purchase some and do not have the time to use them, you can freeze them. This is a great way to have cranberries all year long.
According to the Cranberry Institute: 1 cup of raw cranberries has about 50 calories. Cranberries are also associated with these health benefits:
- Urinary tract health – may reduce the risk of UTI’s, a painful condition that afflicts some 11 million American women each year.
- Heart health – try cranberries in salads, trail mixes, or smoothies. They are the perfect addition to a heart-healthy diet.
- Ulcers – cranberries may prevent adhesion of the bacteria H. pylori to the lining of the stomach.
- Whole body benefits – cranberries provide a myriad of health benefits. All commonly enjoyed cranberry products contain beneficial antioxidants.
According to the American Cancer Society, eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables may reduce the risk for cancer and developing other chronic diseases.
Looking for a new recipe to try? Check out these recipes from USDA’s Recipe Finder, What’s Cooking?
Perfect for fall is the Apple Cranberry Salad Toss. Doesn’t it look yummy?
Cranberry Nut Bread makes a perfect option for breakfast, lunch or snack. Add fresh cranberries to your favorite muffins or bread recipe.
Another source for easy-to-follow cranberry recipes, can be found at USCranberries.com.
For more information on cranberries, visit The Cranberry Institute.
Do you have a favorite cranberry recipe? If so, share it in our comments.
Sources:
The Top 10 Reasons to Recommend Cranberries
https://www.cranberryinstitute.org/HCP/New%20Top%2010%20Reasons%20to%20Recommend%20CranberriesF.pdf
Rediscover Cranberries!
https://www.cranberryinstitute.org/HCP/1_REDISCOVER.pdf
Writer: Brenda Sandman-Stover, Extension Program Assistant, 4-H and Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Greene County.
Reviewer: Michelle Treber, Extension Educator, Family and Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Pickaway County.
Live Healthy Live Well 
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