In the preliminary study, researchers administered a double serving of light cranberry juice to patients with coronary artery disease and, over the next several hours, found the juice helped reverse an impairment in blood vessels by increasing their ability to dilate and carry more blood. This impairment in patients with coronary artery disease and those at risk of heart disease is called endothelial dysfunction and is characterized by a constriction of blood vessels that results in elevated blood pressure, which can exacerbate heart problems.
"Our preliminary research found a change in blood flow in response to cranberry consumption -- suggesting improved endothelial function, a key factor in cardiovascular health," said Paul Milbury, Ph.D. of Tufts University. "As consumers are becoming increasingly more health conscious, research has demonstrated cranberries role in supporting urinary tract, stomach, oral and now presents evidence of a role in heart health."