Who knew that one little seed could produce a powerful fruit beneficial to our health needs today. These pitted fruits contain so many health benefits that it is impossible to not consider them as a necessary addition to our diets. With there being over 1,000 known varieties of cherries, grouped into either sweet or tart categories, this nutrient packed fruit can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
Here are 7 of Nature’s secrets of cherry health benefits:
1. Muscle Recovery
Due to their anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant make up, which we’ll talk about later, cherries have proven to bring relief in exercise-induced muscle pain and soreness. While many choose to use pharmaceutical pain relievers, cherries are a natural alternative which can aid in reduction of muscle inflammation, therefore reducing much of the pain caused from muscle damage or fatigue.
2. Support Heart Health
Because of their high potassium, cherries aid in the lowering of blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. Anthocyanins, the pigments responsible for the cherry’s deep red color, improves blood flow and has been associated with a reduced risk of myocardial infarction in specific aged women (link). The triglycerides in cherries also help to dissipate belly fat which is linked to the risk of heart disease.
3. Contains Anticancer Compounds
This one is huge! Polyphenols have been shown to have positive effects on the cells of various human cancers. As mentioned above, cherries contain anthocyanins, which not only alleviate muscle pain, but in research have been shown to inhibit cancer cell growth and division.
In a recent study conducted by Texas A&M on mice, they showed that sweet cherry extracts slowed the growth of triple negative breast cancer, as well as reduced the spread of it. While there is not enough evidence to support cherries being the complete replacement for chemotherapy, they are a nice supportive and preventative addition to consider.
4. Reduces the Risk of Chronic Disease
Vitamin A, C, and E which are all found in cherries provide such a powerful antioxidant benefit that combats chronic diseases over time. In fact, free radicals (molecules that can damage healthy cells) are neutralized by the consistent consumption of cherries. Free radicals have been found to be a driving force behind chronic diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease.
5. Restful Sleep
Taken by many, melatonin is an antioxidant that helps to regulate sleep and provide better sleep quality. Cherries are a natural source of melatonin! Tart cherry juice, which is my personal favorite, can help to promote a healthy sleep cycle meaning no more restless nights of sleep. Sleep insufficiency is linked to many conditions such as anxiety, low cognitive function, and chronic diseases so consuming cherries before bed can be a great addition.
6. Reduces Overall Inflammation
This one is most important as told to me by the Lord! While inflammation is essential to to regular body function. Chronic inflammation is not! Chronic inflammation is when the body’s inflammatory response triggers even without targeting a danger within the body. Chronic inflammation is linked to people who suffer from Alzheimers, arthritis, cancer, heart disease, diabetes, etc. Cherries aid in reducing this inflammation through the use of its flavonoids, anthocyanins, and other polyphenols.
7. Improve Cognitive Function
Due to their high antioxidant power, cherries can aid in improving memory and reducing cognitive decline. Serotonin and dopamine which are vital for cognitive performance can be enhanced through the consumption of cherries as they influence the process of neurotransmission. And ofcourse as mentioned before, their ability to neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation has positive impacts on the brain and brain function overall.
In fact a study was conducted on adults with mild to moderate dementia and it was proven that those who were given cherry juice on a regular basis had improvements in their memory and word-recall.
Overall, this powerful superfood has too many benefits to deny. Whether you choose to enjoy it in juice form, made into a jam or jelly, or straight from nature, cherries have a great effect in creating a healthier you.
