Most everyone knows that cranberries are frequently used for urinary tract infections in women. We believe that this may work by a sugar in the cranberries, called mannose, that serves to prevent the bacteria from attaching to the lining of the bladder. Similarly, new research shows that cranberries might also be useful to prevent dental decay by the same mechanism.
Additionally, as we approach Thanksgiving it is important to remember that cranberries are chock full of antioxidants that have many other health benefits. Many cranberry containing products though are loaded with sugar, so just be sure to keep the consumption of sugar very low when consuming cranberries.
Medical News Today November 9, 2004