Calories in cranberries
A half cup of cranberries, weighing 48 grams, have only 20 calories according to the CDC.
There are only 6 grams of carbohydrates and only 2 of those are sugars.
There are 2 grams of dietary fiber, and as usual with fruits, there is no fat, cholesterol, sodium, or protein.
There are only very small amounts of vitamins and minerals with only 10% of daily value for Vitamin C.
Cranberry pros and cons
The good news about this fruit is that it is high in polyphenols and antioxidants.
The juice is also a traditional home remedy for some urinary or kidney problems, with some research to support its use.
The bad news is that it is so tart, it is almost impossible to eat the berries or drink the juice without adding sweeteners, which of course, add to your daily calories and glycemic load.
Buying fresh or prepared
Ripe raw cranberries are bright red, plump, and with skins so tight that the berry will actually bounce, thus going by the name "bounceberries."
Good ones are not shriveled or browned.
They will last a few months in the refrigerator or can be frozen for a year.
Serving ideas
Most people use this fruit in a sweetened sauce, jelly, or mixed chutney to accompany meats, especially during winter months.
Sweetened dried berries can be chopped and added to many entrees including poultry, rice, and vegetable dishes, as well as quick breads, scones, and muffins.
And of course, there's always the fun of stringing them onto long threads for winter holiday decorations!
More diet information with free subscription to the Green Tea Health Newsletter here:
http://www.green-tea-health-news.com/calories-in-cranberries.html
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