Eating cherries leads to a boost in antioxidant activity in the body — even after just one-and-a-half servings of Cherries, commonly known as sour cherries. A clinical study conducted at the University of Michigan found for the first time that antioxidants in tart cherries make it into the human bloodstream and boost antioxidant activity. Twelve healthy adults, aged 18 to 25, were randomly assigned to consume either one-and-a-half cups or three cups of them. After the participants ate them, researchers analyzed their blood and urine and found increased antioxidant activity for up to 12 hours after the consumption of cherries.
Cherries have been a popular fruit crop for consumption in the U.S. and has more recently peaked in 2009 at 2.4 lbs. per person every year, reports the USDA Economic Research Service (ERS). The boost in consumption is largely in part due to the recent studies that have unveiled the benefits of the red hot super fruit to a person’s health. Mediterranean and diet expert Stella Metsovas, B.S., told Medical Daily, “Cherries are known for their anti-inflammatory benefits.”
“The ORAC value (a method for checking the antioxidant capacity in food) is super high in this fruit,” she added.
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Although cherries are a powerhouse of antioxidants, nutritionist Rania Batayneh, MPH author of the forthcoming The 1:1:1 Diet, said to Medical Daily, “Beyond anti-oxidants, they are the only natural source of melatonin, a hormone that regulates the body’s internal block and sleep-wake cycles.”
One cup of this tasty summer delight can keep the doctor away, aid you when it comes to cancer and age-related diseases, and most importantly help you get a good night’s sleep. Find out the top five reasons to eat more of these superfood.
- Helps With Arthritis And Inflammatory Conditions.
- Helps Lower Blood Sugar Levels In People With Diabetes.
- Helps Lower The Risk Of Heart Disease.
- Helps Lower The Risk Of Colon Cancer.
- Helps Improve Memory.
Cherries offer the vital nutrition for a long and healthy life. One cup of cherries contains 90 calories with an ample supply of fiber, protein, and vitamin A and C, says the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).