Are cherries that good for you? The answer is yes, 100 times yes! They're delightful and high in vitamins, minerals, and bioactive components; all have substantial health benefits. Here are 5 impressive health benefits of cherries.
1. Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds
Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory elements are abundant in cherries, lowering the risk of chronic illness and improving general health. The high concentration of plant compounds in cherries may be responsible for this fruit’s many health benefits.
Though the amount and type can vary depending on the variety, all cherries are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. This high antioxidant concentration may aid in the prevention of oxidative stress, which has been related to a variety of chronic illnesses and premature aging.
2. Packed with nutrients
One cup (154 grams) of sweet, raw, pitted cherries provides:
- Calories: 97
- Protein: 2 grams
- Carbs: 25 grams
- Fibre: 3 grams
- Vitamin C: 18% of the
- Daily Value (DV)
- Potassium: 10% of the DV
- Copper: 5% of the DV
- Manganese: 5% of the DV
Fibre, vitamin C, and potassium, in particular, are beneficial to our health in various ways. For example, vitamin C is necessary for the immune system and skin health. In contrast, potassium is required for muscular contraction, neuron function, blood pressure adjustment, and other biological functions.
Cherries are also high in fibre, which helps to keep your digestive system healthy by maintaining bowel regularity and supporting beneficial gut flora. B vitamins, manganese, copper, magnesium, and vitamin K are also prevalent.
3. Beneficial for exercise recovery
4. Beneficial for inflammation
Cherries include plant chemicals called anthocyanins and cyanide, which may have anti-inflammatory qualities and are well recognized for their antioxidant characteristics. Initial research has shown that these antioxidants could benefit inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. However, more research is needed to replicate these results in human studies.
5. May improve sleep
Tart cherries contain high concentrations of phytochemicals, including melatonin, which is involved in regulating our sleep cycles. There has been mixed research as to whether cherries, specifically cherry juice, benefit those who have trouble sleeping, but the signs are encouraging. According to research published in the European Journal of Nutrition, tart cherry juice improves the quality and length of sleep and may be helpful to individuals who have sleep problems. Cherries are highly nutritious and offer a host of health benefits. Not only do they contain an array of powerful plant compounds that can help reduce inflammation, but eating them may improve sleep, boost heart health, and speed recovery after exercise. In addition, both sweet and tart varieties are delicious and can be used in diverse recipes. Cherries are one of the main ingredients in our Paleo Chocolate Nutybite Granola Cluster. Despite dried cherries, it is made with functional ingredients like a blend of nuts, seaweed, dark chocolate, and cinnamon that are anti-inflammatory and loaded with vitamins and minerals. It is a great source of Omega-3, iodine, and antioxidants for better gut health. Click here to try!