Fruits and vegetables are vital to our diet, as they are a great source of essential fiber and nutrients. One fruit that is full of nutrients and have benefits you would not have guessed is the cherry. Like most fruits, cherries can prevent the onset of chronic disease, although you would never know it by looking at them. Additionally, they can help you sleep, alleviate muscle distress, and help with joint diseases like gout and arthritis.

Research done at several prestigious facilities such as the University of California Davis has proven just how beneficial cherries can be, particularly in decreasing muscle inflammation. Cherries contain highly beneficial antioxidants called anthocyanins, which give cherries their dark hue and work to alleviate inflammation caused by excessive workouts, especially in athletes. These particular antioxidants are also found similarly colored fruits like blueberries.

I promote organic, pure (unsweetened) cherry juice to prevent muscle atrophy and pain. Also if you are looking for a healthy way to wean yourself off of sleeping pills or other nighttime substances, cherries are a perfect way to get a natural good night’s sleep as they carry melatonin, an antioxidant that stimulates a healthy sleep-wake cycle.

Try blending some pure, organic cherry juice into your morning smoothie, or mixing it up with some organic gluten free oatmeal for breakfast. If you decide to drink cherry juice from a glass though, sip it through a straw so it does not stain your teeth. Also, if you are going to buy cherry juice be sure to buy the brand that is 100% pure and not sweetened with sugar or natural sweeteners!

References:

http://www.path2healthyliving.com/HealthBenefitsOfCherryJuice.html

http://cherryjuicepower.com/fruitresearchbenefits.htm#antioxidant

http://www.livestrong.com/article/270760-the-health-benefits-of-organic-cherry-juice/

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2006/07/060721210534.htm