- Everybody loves the sweet taste of cherries and the health benefits of cherries are many.
- They make a great addition to desserts, but are also delicious by themselves.
- Let’s take a look at the health benefits of cherries.
- Anti-inflammatory:
- Cherries are important for fighting inflammation. A study from UC Davis showed that eating cherries for 28 days significantly reduced inflammation, including a 25% percent reduction in C-reactive protein (often linked to inflammation).
- Anti-aging:
- There are two flavonoids in cherries called isoqueritrin and queritrin. These flavonoids help protect against the effects of oxidative stress, therefore slowing down the aging process.
- Better sleep:
- Cherries may help you sleep. Cherries may increase levels of melatonin in the blood.
- Melatonin helps with the natural sleep patterns of the body.
- Cancer & disease prevention:
- Like most berries, cherries are loaded with antioxidants. They help fight the effects of oxidative stress. According to Dr. Andrew Weil, “Oxidative stress is the total burden placed on organisms by the constant production of free radicals in the normal course of metabolism plus whatever other pressures the environment brings to bear (natural and artificial radiation, toxins in air, food and water; and miscellaneous sources of oxidizing activity, such as tobacco smoke).”
- Oxidative stress is a major factor for serious diseases like heart disease, cancer, and more.
- Queritrin, ellagic acid, and perillyl alcohol are potent anti-cancer agents.
- Pain relief:
- Cherries are a good source of two compounds called anthocyanins and bioflavonoids. These compounds help slow the activity of enzymes Cyclo-oxyygenase-1 and -2, which helps relieve pain from gout and arthritis. Since cherries have anti-inflammatory effects, they work like aspirin and ibuprofen, relieving pain from migraine headaches.
- For a pain reliever smoothie with cherries.
- Note: None of the information in our website is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. The content on our website is for educational purposes only.
- REFERENCES
- 1. Mercola, Joseph, DO. “The Top Six Reasons Why Cherries Are Naturally Good for You.” Mercola.com. Dr. Joseph Mercola, 7 Jan. 2004. Web. 11 July 2013.
- 2. Weil, Andrew, M.D. “Stumped by Oxidative Stress?” Stumped by Oxidative Stress? Dr. Andrew Weil, n.d. Web. 11 July 2013.
- 3. Woods, Marcia. “Cherries Pack an Anti-Inflammatory Punch.” USDA. USDA.com, 11 May 2006. Web. 11 July 2013.
- 4. Schor, Jacob, ND. “Cherry Juice Supplies Melatonin and Improves Sleep – Natural Medicine Journal: The Official Journal of the American Association of Naturopathic Physicians.” Natural Medicine Journal. NaturalMedicineJournal.com, 30 Oct. 2011. Web. 11 July 2013.
