As we get closer to summer, we enter the cherry season. So, what are these amazingly delicious little fruits, and what are their health benefits? Today, we are discussing the health advantages of cherries and how to ensure their inclusion in your diet this summer.
Cherries are brightly colored, ranging from orange to red, and their sweet taste matches their beauty. They have always been recognized as a summer fruit. However, looking beyond their beauty and taste, we explore what health benefits cherries have and why they should be a part of your diet.
A health benefit associated with cherries is how rich it is in antioxidants. Cherries have a high content of polyphenols and anthocyanins. These powerful antioxidants are well known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
These antioxidants help make harmful free radicals harmless in the body. They also help reduce oxidation-related stress and inflammation, which is a major cause of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
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Additionally, research tells us that cherries are exceptionally helpful in improving the well-being of the heart. Regular consumption of cherries helps our body lower its levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, two risk factors for heart disease.
Cherries also contain compounds that may help regulate blood pressure, further supporting cardiovascular health. Cherry consumption may benefit conditions such as arthritis and gout. Studies tell us that cherries help relieve inflammation because of the presence of anthocyanins. Adding cherries to your diet could help with joint pain and inflammation.
Cherries are also rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. Vitamin C helps improve our immune function and skin health. Potassium helps maintain our blood pressure and is essential for the muscles. Fiber helps with digestion and prevents excessive feeding.
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Two types of cherries can be eaten for their health benefits: sweet cherries (Prunus avium) and tart cherries (Prunus cerasus). Both have really good nutritional value.
Sweet cherries of Bing and Rainier varieties are better when they are eaten fresh. They provide a comforting smell of sweetness when added to salads or just as desserts. They can be enjoyed individually as a snack.
Tart cherries, known for their acidic taste, are used in cooking and baking. Montmorency cherries are a more common type of tart cherry, recognized for their potential health benefits. Tart cherries are revered for their high levels of anthocyanins, which have higher anti-inflammatory properties than sweet cherries.
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So, regardless of your preferences, sweet or tart, including them in your diet can be a cheat to eating something sweet but healthy. Enjoy them while they are in season, or choose preserved cherries, available year-round.
Cherries are not just sweet; they are also beneficial to our health. No matter your preference, including them in your diet is a nice way of supporting your heart health. So, go ahead and indulge in nature’s treat while also improving your health.
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