More About Cherries & Why they make the perfect Gift!

Give the gift of Health & Vitality

A substantial and growing body of scientific research continuously links Montmorency tart cherries to an array of important health benefits.

Tart cherries are abundant in anthocyanins – a natural compound that contributes to the ruby-red color and distinctive sour-sweet taste. This phytonutrient, a type of flavonoid, is also behind the potential health-promoting properties of tart cherries. From soothing arthritis symptoms and easing muscle pain after a workout to enhancing sleep, tart cherries have been credited with an array of health advantages.

More than 50 studies have examined the potential health benefits of tart cherries, and the research is continuing. 

Sleep

Research indicates that tart cherry juice may help improve the quality and duration of sleep, reduce the severity of insomnia and increase overall sleep efficiency.

We all know the importance of sleep – but what you might not know is that being tired isn’t just about feeling grumpy. While a restful night can lead to a more productive day, inadequate sleep is linked to health problems like weight gain and high blood pressure. So it’s crucial to prioritize sleep.

To help them do so, many people turn to sleep aids, including melatonin pills. With tart cherries, however, they may have a natural remedy to promote sleep that also tastes good.

Tart cherries are one of the few natural sources of melatonin, which is responsible for the regulation of the body’s internal clock and sleep-wake cycle. Researchers believe it’s the combination of melatonin and the anthocyanins in tart cherries that might help you sleep better at night.

Enjoy a handful of dried tart cherries as a bedtime snack. You might find that your long nights of tossing and turning or counting sheep are over.

Recovery

Long known for its anti-inflammatory properties (which have been highly valued by sufferers of arthritis and gout), tart cherry juice is now relied on for easing muscle soreness after exercise.

Arthritis & Gout

Research indicates that tart cherries may help reduce inflammation related to arthritis and gout.

For decades, people with arthritis and gout have consumed tart cherry juice for relief of symptoms – even though much of the evidence was anecdotal, and some people dismissed the soothing claims as folklore.

Now there’s hard science to back it up.  Tart cherries are one of the highest sources of phenolic compounds, specifically anthocyanins, which have been shown to fight inflammation – even as much as some pain medications. In fact, some researchers have concluded that tart cherries have more inflammation-fighting potential than any other food.

"With millions of Americans looking for ways to naturally manage pain, it’s promising that tart cherries can help, without the possible side effects often associated with arthritis medications. I’m intrigued by the potential for a real food to offer such a powerful anti-inflammatory benefit – especially for active adults."

Kerry Kuehl, MD, DrPH, Oregon Health & Science University

Heart Health

Cardiovascular disease remains the No. 1 killer of both men and women in Australia. Changes in diet and exercise can go a long way in helping to keep your heart healthy.

A good place to start is eating more fruits and vegetables, especially deeply hued produce that’s packed with heart-healthy compounds. Typically, the darker the color, the better.

Be sure to add cherries to the mix. Researchers believe cherries may provide a number of cardiovascular benefits due to the intensity of anthocyanins inside these ruby-red fruits. Studies indicate that cherries may help lower levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, reduce inflammation and improve belly fat – all factors specifically linked to heart disease risk.

The Power of Cherries

Cherries are emerging as a major Super Fruit. A substantial and growing body of scientific research has linked cherries to anti-inflammatory benefits, reduced pain from gout and arthritis and an extensive list of heart health benefits.

Recent studies even suggest cherries can help reduce post-exercise muscle and joint pain. Available dried, frozen and in juice and concentrate, cherries contain a unique package of antioxidants and beneficial phytonutrients, including anthocyanins — the pigments that give cherries their bright red color.

There are now more than 50 studies specifically on tart cherries and scientists continue to uncover new and important benefits of this fruit.

Give the gift of health!