2015

The Super-Charged Health Benefits of Cranberry Juice

The Super-Charged Health Benefits of Cranberry Juice
When you think of a pre- or post-workout drink, you usually think along the lines of protein powders, carbs and antioxidants. And you wouldn't be wrong. But there is an extra something that can enhance and benefit your body when you make your protein shakes or even drink it straight up.

Cranberry Super Food Were you aware of the phenomenal health benefits of cranberry juice? AND, that it's a great addition to your daily pre and post workout nutrition plan?

When I was first approached by Oasis to trial the Oasis Nutrisource line of juices, I immediately thought - "What the?"

For several years I've struggled to find a big-box juice that I'd be okay with my kids drinking. After some due diligence and personal trials, I'm happy to report back that I'm pleased with the Nutrisource line for 3 reasons:

  1. the 100% juice product is not an overproduced SSB ( sugar sweetened beverage )

  2. The low 40cal alternative is sweetened with stevia and not sucralose or aspartame.

  3. My kids love it!


The following post includes some of my thoughts and findings on the health benefits of cranberries - and the simple fact that if you aren't able to eat them, there's a great juice alternative.

What exactly does cranberry juice do for your body?


Cranberries contain manganese, Vitamin C, Fiber, Vitamin E, copper, Vitamin K and pantothenic acid. It helps reduce dental plaque, is a kidney stone deterrent (still under study) , and fights cancer and candida yeasts (1). But what can it do for your body as it relates to your workout?

Cranberries have anti-inflammatory and bone strengthening (manganese) nutrients that help post- and pre-workout. For example, Vitamin C, which cranberries are rich in, is an antioxidant that promotes healing of bones, skin and connective tissue (2).

8 Power-Packed Substances Found In Cranberries and why you need them in your diet

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1. Maganese
The body requires maganese to work properly making it an essential nutrient.

Manganese is used for prevention and treatment of manganese deficiency, a condition in which the body doesn't have enough manganese. It is also used for weak bones (osteoporosis), a type of “tired blood” (anemia), and symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

2. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)
Vitamin C is one of the safest and most effective nutrients, experts say.

It may not be the cure for the common cold (though it's thought to help prevent more serious complications). But the benefits of vitamin C may include protection against immune system deficiencies, cardiovascular disease, prenatal health problems, eye disease, and even skin wrinkling.

3. Fiber
You need fiber in your diet to maintain intestinal health and to help control blood glucose and cholesterol.

Soluble fiber is found in beans, peas, lentils, oatmeal, oat bran, nuts, seeds, psyllium, apples, pears, cranberries, strawberries, and blueberries. Soluble fiber is linked to lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol, regulating blood sugar, and a lower risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

4. Vitamin E
Vitamin E is necessary for structural and functional maintenance of skeletal, cardiac, and smooth muscle.

It also assists in the formation of red blood cells and helps to support stores of vitamins A and K, iron, and selenium. It may have a positive effect on immune health, protect against the oxidative damage that can lead to heart disease, have preventive effects against cancer, help relieve symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, and may help prevent some diabetes-related damage, particularly to the eyes.

5. Copper
The health benefits of copper include proper growth of the body, efficient use of iron, proper enzymatic reactions, as well as improved health of connective tissues, hair, and eyes.

Copper is also integral for preventing premature aging and increasing energy production. Apart from these, regulated heart rhythm, balanced thyroid glands, reduced symptoms of arthritis, quick wound healing, increased red blood cell formation, and reduced cholesterol are other health benefits of copper.

6. Vitamin K
Vitamin K is essential for the proper formation and full activation of the Gla proteins.

The Gla protein osteocalcin, when fully carboxylated by vitamin K, allows for the binding of calcium to the bone matrix. The Gla protein known as matrix-Gla protein is found in vascular smooth muscles. Matrix Gla protein is a key inhibitor of soft tissue calcification that binds calcium, preventing it from depositing in the vessel walls. Both Gla proteins are essential for proper calcium metabolism, and neither can be fully activated without adequate vitamin K.

7. Pantothenic Acid (vitamin B5)
Vitamin B5, also called pantothenic acid, which helps the body convert food (carbohydrates) into fuel (glucose), which is used to produce energy.

Vitamin B5 also helps the body use fats and protein. B vitamins are needed for healthy skin, hair, eyes, and liver. They also help the nervous system function properly.

8. Phytonutrients
Phytonutrients can be defined as nutrients that have been scientifically proven to provide health benefits.

" Phyto " in Greek means plants, and phytonutrients fall into their own class because they are not related to fats, carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, or minerals. These nutrients allow for optimal cellular function and communication. When our cells are communicating effectively, the proper sequence of enzymatic reactions take place. This all leads to biochemical reactions creating healthier tissues and organ systems, detoxification of foreign substances, a strong immune system, and muscles that will perform when called upon.

And don't forget about these...

Phenolic Acids, Proanthocyanidins, Anthocyanins, Flavonoids, Triterpenoids... Sounds like names out of a sci-fi doesn't it?

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Enjoying Cranberry Juice as a Pre-Workout Drink


Cranberry juice (like Oasis Nutrisource 40 cal) mixed with about 5g of creatine  and 10g of BCAAs , makes for an excellent pre-workout drink. I prefer this mix as a great tasting cranberry juice cocktail alternative to sugar and sucrose with no compromise on fruit taste. After all, if it doesn't taste good, you'll eventually find an excuse to NOT use it.

[one_half]The natural sugars found in the juice helps with creatine absorption into the muscle tissues. Not to mention, the manganese also found in the cranberries, helps support the bones for a stronger skeletal system, which encourages better posture and stronger bones. Overall, this simple mix is an easy add-in to any fitness routine, which will in time offer some fantastic benefits.[/one_half][one_half_last][box type="note" align="aligncenter" class="" width=""] What's the deal with mixing creatine with sugar? A 1996 study showed that ingesting a carbohydrate solution with creatine promoted a 60 percent greater increase in total creatine concentrations in the muscle, compared with taking creatine alone.[/box][/one_half_last]

The Ultimate Post-Workout Cranberry Juice Smoothie


When it comes to a post-workout beverage, cranberry juice makes for a solid smoothie/shake base. As an advocate for the importance of  recovery nutrition  - it's been a big part of my routine for nearly 18 years now - I recommend implementing a post-workout shake, within 2 hours of training, for 3 reasons...

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Cranberry Juice Smoothie Shake3 Reasons why you should implement a post-workout RECOVERY shake:



  1. Decrease protein breakdown (rebuild and repair muscle)

  2. Increase protein synthesis (build new muscle)

  3. Replenish Glycogen levels (re-fuel your muscles)


"Several studies have shown that proper post-workout nutrition (carbohydrates with protein) , when available within the 2-hour window of "opportunity", can stimulate muscle repair, muscle growth, and muscle strength." ~ Precision Nutrition, About Post Workout Nutrition

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Recipe: The "Cran-Power Up" Post-workout Shake


In a blender, blend the following:

  • 1 or 2 scoops (15 to 30g) of your favorite protein powder ( this one is mine )

  • 1 cup (250mL) Oasis Nutrisource 40cal Cranberry Juice

  • 1/2 cup Greek Yoghurt

  • 3 or 4 medium sized ice cubes

  • 1/4 cup of frozen berries - note, refrain from adding to your shake if trying to keep carbohydrates to a minimum

  • 5 to 10g of Glutamine

  • And, 1 handful of awesomeness (okay, I made that one up)


CranPower Up Smoothie

This Cranberry Power-up shake is packed with antioxidants, protein and probiotics, as well, it will give you a nice pick-me up of energy post-workout.

The Vitamin-C promotes healing, while the anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatory aspects of cranberries help in the healing process, as well as aid in continued strengthening of the bones and connective tissues.

In conclusion, cranberries are an overlooked powerhouse that offer cleansing, healing and protection for your body. Whether you're eating cranberries fresh off the bush or incorporating in your pre and post-workout recovery drinks, it's going to help you and your training program.
Don't believe me, give it a go for a week and let me know how your workouts and recovery change. I'm confident you'll be thanking me.

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[one_fourth]If you didn't know already, Oasis Nutrisource has an awesome contest running. You can enter to win 1 of 10, $1000 shopping sprees. Click to enter (and good luck!)[/one_fourth][three_fourth_last] Win 1 of 10 1000 shopping spree oasis juices [/three_fourth_last]

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you are awesome - really This post is sponsored by 360ACCESS on behalf of Oasis Nutrisource. The opinions are my own.

“Just so you know, I have been compensated to share my ideas on this topic. Sometimes it is in the form of products, or services or even money… But here’s the thing; I won’t  share anything with you that I don’t fully support. It doesn't matter what it is, or how much they are willing to give me, if I don’t believe in it, It won’t be on my site. Seriously. You’ll just have to trust me on this.”   ~ Moose

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  1. http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=145#healthbenefits

  2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cranberry

  3. http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-958-CRANBERRY.aspx?activeIngredientId=958&activeIngredientName=CRANBERRY


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