Compared to regular cherries, tart cherries, also known as sour or pie cherries are less sweet and have better health benefits. They contain more phytochemicals which are the reason behind their color and antioxidant activity. Additionally, the cherries are also loaded with vitamin C & A, potassium, fiber and anthocyanins that reduce inflammation and oxidative stress and slow mental decline. Moreover, this fruit is also abundant in beta-carotene, which is needed by the body to make vitamin A and maintain a healthy immune system.
In a 2009 study, researchers found that drinking tart cherry juice can help decrease oxidative damage to body cells, thereby acting as a deterrent against cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s.
Aside from reducing inflammation, tart cherries were also found to reduce the pain that is associated with gout and arthritis.
As reported in the November 2014 edition of The Journal of Functional Food, regular consumption of tart cherries can increase the anthocyanins in the bloodstream. Anthocyanins become an anti-inflammatory powerhouse once they interact within the human body. Also, it was reported that the cherries can create positive changes in the metabolism of the uric acid in the body thereby reducing the pain caused by gout.
Moreover, the Journal Of Functional Foods has published a study revealing that consumption of 90 frozen cherries can help increase the antioxidant capacity in the blood for an impressive 12 hours.
Researchers from Michigan State University have also found that due to its anti-inflammatory benefits, tart cherries offer 10 times the pain-relieving properties than over-the-counter solutions such as aspirin.
In a single, blind, two-phase study which was featured in the Journal of foods, results showed that 2 tbsps. of tart cherries mixed with water to make a full glass can help lower uric acid levels in the blood.
Some other health benefits of Tart Cherries are as follows:
Promotes Better Sleep
Tart cherries contain melatonin and tryptophan which can help promote a good night’s sleep.
Strong Bones
Dried berries are rich sources of boron, which along with magnesium and calcium, which have been linked to increased bone health.
Heart-Protective
Researchers have found that tart cherries contain quercetin, an anti-carcinogenic that can also help prevent heart disease.
Supports Overall Health
Tart cherries are loaded with potassium, vitamin C and B complex as well as anthocyanins, quercetin, and phenolic acid amygdalin, which can all help provide pain relief, improve bone health, and prevent heart diseases, even cancer.
