4 Surprising benefits of Cherries
Cherries are a delicious summertime treat, and if you need a reason to indulge, know that they’re actually good for you. Recent research shows that this summer’s super fruit provides a variety of health benefits including:
Reducing risk of heart disease and diabetes
Heart disease and diabetes affect millions of Americans, but research shows that 20 cherries provide 25 milligrams of anthocyanins, which shut down the enzymes that cause tissue inflammation. Those anthocyanins also lower blood sugar levels in animals, leading scientists to speculate that they would have a similar effect in humans. Cherries also have a low glycemic index, which means they release glucose slowly and evenly, helping to maintain a steady blood sugar level that in turn helps maintain a healthy weight.
Combating arthritis and gout
More than 8.3 million Americans suffer from gout, a form of arthritis characterized by severe pain, redness and joint tenderness. Gout is associated with elevated levels of uric acid in the blood, but researchers recently discovered that people who ate sweet cherries (black cherries) showed reduced levels of uric acid. Additionally, people who ate cherries had a 35 to 75 percent chance of experiencing gout.
Supporting sleep with melatonin
Melatonin is the chemical that controls your body’s internal clock to regulate sleep and promote healthy sleep patterns. Cherries are a natural source of melatonin, and researchers recommend eating them an hour before bed to help stabilize your sleep cycle.
Losing weight with fiber
Most Americans’ diets are fiber-deficient, falling short of the 25 to 35 recommended per day. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend two cups of fruit daily, and cherries are an easy and delicious way to meet that goal.
Cherries have additional benefits to those listed above, including cancer-fighting properties, so whether you’re looking to boost your health or just enjoy a tasty treat, there are plenty of reasons to reach for a bowl of cherries for your next snack or to include them in your next meal. Be sure to get them before cherry season is over and make sure to treat your body the way it deserves by using only all natural, organic products like Edye’s Naturals.
Reducing risk of heart disease and diabetes
Heart disease and diabetes affect millions of Americans, but research shows that 20 cherries provide 25 milligrams of anthocyanins, which shut down the enzymes that cause tissue inflammation. Those anthocyanins also lower blood sugar levels in animals, leading scientists to speculate that they would have a similar effect in humans. Cherries also have a low glycemic index, which means they release glucose slowly and evenly, helping to maintain a steady blood sugar level that in turn helps maintain a healthy weight.
Combating arthritis and gout
More than 8.3 million Americans suffer from gout, a form of arthritis characterized by severe pain, redness and joint tenderness. Gout is associated with elevated levels of uric acid in the blood, but researchers recently discovered that people who ate sweet cherries (black cherries) showed reduced levels of uric acid. Additionally, people who ate cherries had a 35 to 75 percent chance of experiencing gout.
Supporting sleep with melatonin
Melatonin is the chemical that controls your body’s internal clock to regulate sleep and promote healthy sleep patterns. Cherries are a natural source of melatonin, and researchers recommend eating them an hour before bed to help stabilize your sleep cycle.
Losing weight with fiber
Most Americans’ diets are fiber-deficient, falling short of the 25 to 35 recommended per day. The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend two cups of fruit daily, and cherries are an easy and delicious way to meet that goal.
Cherries have additional benefits to those listed above, including cancer-fighting properties, so whether you’re looking to boost your health or just enjoy a tasty treat, there are plenty of reasons to reach for a bowl of cherries for your next snack or to include them in your next meal. Be sure to get them before cherry season is over and make sure to treat your body the way it deserves by using only all natural, organic products like Edye’s Naturals.
