Date: 5 November 2006

NEW STUDY FINDS CRANBERRY MAY HELP FIGHT FLU

As the winter months draw close, Ocean Spray ITG has welcomed the results of a study that suggest the cranberry’s unique compounds may help to ward off certain types of flu virus. Preliminary laboratory research suggests that components found in North American cranberries may play a role in preventing certain flu viruses from attaching to host cells and preventing subsequent flu infections. These latest results open up new opportunities for research in this area, further extending the cranberry’s list of potential health benefits.

According to the World Health Organisation, annual flu epidemics affect between five and 15 per cent of the global population – and are thought to result in between 250,000 and 500,000 deaths every year. The subsequent costs of health care and lost productivity impose a considerable economic burden.  Each year, as the cold weather hits, health experts search for effective ways to help prevent the flu virus from taking hold. These latest findings suggest that cranberry may help the body to fight the flu virus.

Universally acknowledged as a powerful antioxidant, the cranberry’s unique anti-adhesion benefits are becoming increasingly well established around the world.  It is this inherent functionality, which prevents certain microbacteria from ‘sticking’ to human cells, that associates cranberry with overall health and wellbeing, particularly urinary tract, gut and oral health.  Manufacturers incorporating cranberry in their products can now benefit even further from its healthy proposition.

Arun Hiranandani, senior manager worldwide marketing at Ocean Spray ITG, said: “These new findings further reinforce what we’ve long known: the cranberry not only tastes and looks great but also offers wide-ranging health benefits, more and more of which are being uncovered as research continues.  We actively support all cranberry studies and hope these positive results will encourage additional research into the health potential of cranberry.”