Cherries: Properties And Benefits For The Health

Cherries are one of the most consumed fruits in the world. This is not only because of its flavor but also the large amounts of vitamins, minerals, and compounds. 

There are generally two types of cherries: Prunus cerasus, known as sour cherry. The other type is Prunus avium, known as wild cherry or sweet cherry. Both are highly nutritious, possessing a large number of fibers, vitamins, and minerals.

Next, we will look into the properties of cherries:

  1. Fibers In Cherry

For every 154 grams of cherry, you get 3 grams of fiber, which allows it to be a good fiber source. In turn, this allows you to keep the digestive system healthy by helping the intestinal flora and the regularity of the bowel movement. 

  1. Proteins, Carbohydrates Calories From Cherry

For every 154 grams of cherry, we find 97 grams of calories, 2 grams of protein and 25 grams of carbohydrates.  

  1. Nutrients 

Cherries have 18% of the daily intake of vitamin C for every 154 grams. To a lesser extent, we can also find vitamin B and vitamin K. Vitamin C is essential to keep the immune system and skin healthy. 

What Are The Health Benefits Of Consuming Cherries?

The main health benefits of cherries are as follows:

  1. It Has Antioxidant And Anti-Inflammatory Effects

The high concentrations of plant-based compounds in cherries allow it to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Its antioxidant compounds allow it to decrease oxidative stress in the body. This process is linked to several chronic diseases and premature aging. 

  1. Help You Sleep 

Cherries, especially dried tart cherries, help a good night’s sleep. This is thanks to the melatonin found inside; a hormone that helps control sleep cycles. 

  1. Lower Blood Cholesterol

Cherries, thanks to their antioxidant content, is capable of lowering blood cholesterol, known as LDL. This is because, when it is oxidized, LDL cholesterol sticks in the arteries, causing an increased risk of various cardiovascular diseases. Therefore, by preventing this from happening, the body can get rid of bad cholesterol naturally.  

  1. Reduce Pain After Exercise

Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, cherries can relieve muscle pain that occurs after exercise. Cherries are also able to protect cells from tearing or deteriorating after exercise and helps muscle recovery. 

In conclusion, cherries are high in polyphenols. These plant-based compounds help alleviate cell damage and reduce inflammation in addition to protecting against chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and mental decline.