6 amazing benefits of cherries

Cherries are appealing to consumers not only because of their delicious, juicy flavor but also because of their unexpected medicinal benefits.

1. Preventing and reducing symptoms of arthritis, gout, etc.

Research indicates that eating 10 cherries a day offers protection against recurring attacks of arthritis and gout. According to Dr. Hyon K. Choi and researchers at the Arthritis Foundation: “Eating cherries reduces the risk of gout flare-ups by 50% within 48 hours.” They predict that this significant improvement will continue to have long-term effects. Another study at the Baylor Research Institute showed that daily intake of tart cherry extract can reduce osteoarthritis inflammation by over 20%.

The compelling antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of anthocyanins and flavonoids found in cherries are the reason for this effect. Cherries, especially sour cherries, contain the highest amount of anthocyanins of any fruit. There is evidence that cherries also reduce elevated uric acid levels and decrease C-reactive protein in general, which is found in inflammatory diseases.

Anyone experiencing degenerative conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, arthritis, osteoporosis, bacterial, viral, or Candida fungal infections (in the mouth and vagina) has inflammation in their body, and therefore all can benefit from the anti-inflammatory effects of cherries.

2. Prevention of cancer and other degenerative diseases

The high fiber content, vitamin C, carotenoids, and anthocyanins (especially cyanidin) found in cherries may aid in the prevention and treatment of cancer. “A study using cancer cell lines demonstrated that anthocyanins in cherries can inhibit the growth cycle of cancer cells and kill mutated cells.” Researchers also noted that quercetin, a flavonoid abundant in cherries, has a potent effect in fighting cancer cells.

Cherries contain ellagic acid and perillyl alcohol (POH), two compounds revered by researchers as having miraculous effects in fighting cancer. Ellagic acid is recognized as the most effective method for preventing cancer due to its anti-cancer and anti-mutagenic properties. POH has been shown to eliminate proteins necessary for cancer cell growth, a fact that has been tested and proven successful in various cancers.

3. Support for patients with high blood pressure

The high potassium content in cherries can help regulate blood pressure and reduce excess sodium produced by high blood pressure. Eating a cup of cherries provides the same amount of potassium as eating a banana. Additionally, the quercetin content of cherries supports healthy blood vessels.

4. Reduces signs of aging

Important flavonoids, such as isoquercitrin, quercitrin, and vitamin C, are abundant in cherries and help minimize cell oxidation, thereby slowing down the aging process. This antioxidant capacity is the reason these flavonoids have anticancer properties.

5. Recovery after exercise and reduction of muscle soreness.

The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of anthocyanins and flavonoids can reduce free radicals caused by exercise, thereby reducing recovery time, pain, inflammation, and muscle soreness. Therefore, cherries are a smart choice for sports enthusiasts, especially athletes, who are at high risk of osteoarthritis due to overexertion leading to cartilage damage or joint injury.

6. Improve sleep

Cherries are rich in melatonin – a compound highly valued for its positive effects on sleep quality, something many people desire but lack.

According to khoahoc.tv