Laboratory experiments suggests that cranberry extract can protect brain cells from stroke-related damage.

Previous research has suggested that cranberries, which contain high levels of antioxidants, reduces the risk of urinary tract infection and may even protect against heart disease. Now researchers at the University of Massachusetts reveal that cranberry extract may also protect the brain from stroke damage.

Rat brain cells which had been treated to simulate the conditions of human stroke were exposed to varying concentrations of cranberry extract. The study showed that the extract was able to prevent the death of brain cells under these conditions. It's soon after a stroke that the brain damage is done and anything that can help limit this will also limit the extent of long-term disability.

This is just a preliminary study that is to be followed up by animal and human investigations. Related research has shown that blueberries could have a similar protective effects against stroke damage.

Source

American Chemical Society Meeting 8th September 2003