Crazy for cranberries: there are many healthy reasons to have another serving of cranberries this thanksgiving--and all year round.(FOOD: FRESH PICKED)(Recipe)

Cranberries--what holiday table would be complete without that splash of crimson? But there is far more to celebrate about these ruby jewels than just their contribution to the season's festivities. That tiny gemlike globe is packed to bursting with health benefits far exceeding those of many other fruits. Lots of vitamin C and dietary fiber, yes, but so much more.

The Cranberry Cure

You may know that women have long been imbibing cranberry juice to prevent and help treat urinary tract infections. But the beneficial effects of cranberries are astonishingly varied: They promote gastrointestinal and oral health; lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL ("good") cholesterol; aid in stroke recovery by improving blood vessel function; inhibit kidney stone formation; and possibly even help ward off cancer. More recent studies suggest that cranberries may hold promise for those with the herpes simplex virus and peptic ulcers.

Cranberries appear to work medicinally by keeping bacteria and other germs from sticking to various parts of your anatomy (for example, the bladder wall and gums). Certain compounds in cranberries also seem to act as natural probiotics by supporting healthy bacterial growth in the gut. And with five times the antioxidants of broccoli, and higher levels of polyphenols than 19 other common fruits (including apples, strawberries and grapes), cranberries are fierce warriors for cardiovascular health. Proanthocyanidins, a particular group of antioxidants found in cranberries and grape seeds, have been shown to inhibit cancer cell proliferation, particularly those cells associated with breast cancer.

Countless Ways to Enjoy Cranberries

Now that you know about their health benefits, of course you'll want to consume cranberries more than once or twice a year, right? When it comes to fully enjoying their goodness, fresh is best and dried is next-best--but when, where and how to use them can be a puzzle. Here are some ideas to try.

For fresh berries: