Cranberries are a real superfood with many benefits, protection against recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) being one of their most famous health benefits. The anti-UTI effects of cranberries ( Vaccinium macrocarpon) and cranberry juice have been largely attributed to the presence of A-type proanthocyanidins (PACs) in cranberries. These flavanoids have been shown to inhibit the adhesion of Escherichia coli, the main UTI-causing bacterium, to the urinary tract wall.

The lingonberry is a small, bright red berry that belongs to the same plant family as the blueberry and cranberry. Health benefits of lingonberries include that they help control weight, fight cancer cells, prevent colon cancer, and other benefits.Control weight.A trial conducted on mice found that lingonberries can prevent many adverse effects caused by a high-fat diet. For example, mice who ate lingonberries avoided developing elevated glucose levels, high cholesterol, and visceral fat gain. Molecules: "Chemopreventative and Therapeutic Effects of Edible Berries: A Focus on Colon Cancer Prevention and Treatment." Additionally, mice on the lingonberry-enriched diet had significantly less fat buildup in their liver. This suggests the berries may have a protective effect against non-alcoholic fatty liver disease — a potential risk factor for heart disease ( 19). The first urinary tract infection (index) was treated with standard antimicrobials. Women had to provide a urine sample showing no bacterial growth three or more days after treatment before they were scheduled for follow up (fig 1). Each woman completed a questionnaire providing demographic data, medical history, and nutritional status at entry and a modified questionnaire at three month intervals. Women recorded use of the products on a self report sheet.

There are two regional varieties or subspecies of V. vitis-idaea, one in Eurasia and one in North America, differing in leaf size: According to studies based out of Cornell University, there are wild and American lingonberries, along with the European lingonberry. The American or wild lingonberry plant typically produces one crop per year in the summer, while the European version produces two and ranges from two to 16 inches in height with branches three to four inches long. What’s more, like many berries, lingonberries are rich in plant compounds, including anthocyanins and flavonoids ( 8, 9, 10). Ho, K. Y., Tsai, C. C., Huang, J. S., Chen, C. P., Lin, T. C., and Lin, C. C. Antimicrobial activity of tannin components from Vaccinium vitis-idaea L. J Pharm Pharmacol 2001;53(2):187-191. View abstract. Blend with sugar for a lingonberry sauce that can be used on pancakes or waffles. Pour over vanilla ice cream for a yummy dessert.

When it comes to lingonberry dishes, the question on everyone’s mind is whether they can eat them raw. Some cultivars are grown for their ornamental rather than culinary value. In the United Kingdom, the Koralle Group has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit. [21] [22] Culinary uses [ edit ] Lingonberry jam on toast Lingonberry jam with mustamakkara, a traditional food in Tampere, Finland Swedish meatballs served with a side of lingonberry jam