Eating cherries is associated with numerous health benefits. Not only do cherries lower blood pressure and reduce inflammation in the body, but they also have significant potential to prevent cardiovascular disease and are beneficial for diabetes.
Cherries contain many phenolic compounds such as flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and vasodilating effects, among other things, according to one of the results of a study on the effects of consuming cherries and berries on cardiovascular health.
Anthocyanins and flavonoids promote health
For the study, the experts evaluated various in vivo studies and clinical studies. They showed that cherries contain many phenolic compounds such as anthocyanins and flavonoids, which have numerous positive bioactive properties.
Anthocyanins and flavonoids, for example, have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and vasodilating effects. According to the team, there is also evidence that regular consumption of cherries reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, which in turn is associated with lower blood pressure, improved lipid profiles and improved endothelial function.
Although the research had some limitations, the study results underline the potential of cherries (and berries) as part of prevention strategies against cardiovascular diseases, the experts conclude.
Reduced oxidative stress
The health-promoting effects of cherries are also confirmed by another study in which the health effects of sweet and sour cherries were compared.
The team involved reports that both sweet and sour cherries reduce oxidative stress, inhibit inflammation, improve cognitive functions and have a positive effect on blood sugar levels.
Improving regeneration after sport
Another advantage of sour cherries is their effect on regeneration after exercise. The researchers report that eating sour cherries has a positive effect on training-related muscle damage.
The experts involved in the study believe that due to the health benefits of cherries, cultivation should be expanded to ensure a constant and reliable supply of these fruits.
Better sleep with cherries
Nutritionist Carly Sedlacek from the Cleveland Clinic in the US also points to the high antioxidant content in cherries, explaining that they protect against inflammation and fight free radicals that cause cell damage and can contribute to chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes and heart disease.
The nutritionist adds that cherries are also rich in vitamins and minerals. Other health benefits of cherries include improving sleep because they contain melatonin, serotonin and tryptophan.
According to Sedlacek, daily consumption of cherries also helps to lower uric acid levels and reduce pain and swelling from arthritis. The same applies to drinking cherry juice.
Other benefits of cherries
Cherries also help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease, and the plant sterols they contain can lower cholesterol levels, says the nutritionist.
In addition, cherries have a low glycemic index and contain fiber, which slows the rise in blood sugar levels, which is also beneficial for diabetes, explains Sedlacek.
Consuming concentrated tart cherry juice is also associated with a significant reduction in blood sugar levels in diabetes. However, care should be taken to ensure that the cherries and juice are only consumed in moderation. (as)