11.12.2025 10:00
During the winter months, while cases of influenza increase, a surprising fruit is taking the place of the preferred orange and tangerine for boosting immunity. Experts state that cornelian cherry provides effective protection against flu and colds with its powerful vitamins and minerals.
As the weather gets colder, cases of flu and colds are rapidly increasing, prompting citizens to turn to natural alternatives to strengthen their immune systems. Alongside classic sources of vitamin C such as oranges, tangerines, and lemons, a fruit that has recently drawn attention for its lesser-known effects is cranberry.
ITS BENEFITS ARE FAR GREATER THAN KNOWN
Expert Dietitian Gaye Kural emphasized that cranberries have a rich content in terms of vitamins and minerals, stating that the fruit is a strong support for the immune system.
Kural expressed that cranberries contain vitamins A and C, carotene, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, sulfur, iron, and iodine, and made the following assessment:
"Thanks to its strong antioxidant properties, it is effective in immune system issues, especially colds and flu. Its high fiber content aids digestion, creates a feeling of fullness, and supports weight loss diets."
HEALTH BENEFITS OF CRANBERRY
It is noted that cranberries not only strengthen immunity but also have allergy-reducing and anti-inflammatory effects. According to experts, cranberries;
Regulate blood clotting,
Provide benefits to diabetics when consumed raw or in the form of boiled cranberry juice/syrup,
Cranberry peel acts as a natural fever reducer and a strong anti-diarrheal.
These features make the fruit stand out as a strong support during flu seasons.
WHERE DOES IT GROW IN TURKEY?
Cranberry, the fruit of a deciduous shrub, is known for its acidic structure and sour taste. Although it is rarely consumed raw, it is widely used in processed form. It is also known to have a protective effect against harmful bacteria in the urinary tract and serves as a diuretic.
In Turkey, cranberries grow wild, especially in the Black Sea, Marmara, Aegean, and Mediterranean regions. The most intense production occurs around Malatya, Bursa, Yalova, Karabük, and Istanbul.