Review Finds Cranberry Supplementation May Confer Significant Chemoprotective Benefit.

Cranberry may confer chemoprotective benefits, according to a University of Massachusetts research review published in the January 2007 issue of Journal of Nutrition (137:186s-93s, 2007). Researchers reviewed a number of trials investigating the anticancer properties of cranberry fruit and key phytochemicals that are likely contributors to chemoprevention. The review of results from in vitro studies using a variety of tumor models showed polyphenolic extracts from cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) can inhibit the growth and proliferation of breast, colon, prostate, lung and other tumors. Similar results were attributed to flavonols, proanthocyanidin oligomers and triterpenoids also isolated from cranberry. In fact, the researchers suggested the unique combination of phytochemicals found in cranberry fruit may produce synergistic health benefits.

Among cranberry's reported possible chemopreventive mechanisms of action were: induction of apoptosis in tumor cells; reduced ornithine decarboxylase activity; decreased expression of matrix metalloproteinases associated with prostate tumor metastasis; and anti-inflammatory activities, including inhibition of cyclooxygenases. The reviewers concluded the results suggest a potential role for cranberry as a dietary chemopreventive and should guide future research on cranberries.

Bio-Design Cranberry Tablets contain 500 mg of pure crystalline cranberry extract 12:1, providing the benefit of cranberry juice without the extreme sourness of pure cranberry juice or the sugar and artificial sweeteners of commercial juice drinks. One cranberry tablet taken with 8 oz. of water provides the equivalent of 8 oz. of cranberry juice. Take one or two cranberry tablets with an 8 oz. glass of water one or more times daily.