Can tart cherries help reduce inflammation and pain?
Regarding inflammation and pain, some research indicates tart cherries could be beneficial. This is particularly true for conditions including arthritis and exercise-related muscular discomfort. Let us look at this future advantage since it has scientific support.
Anthocyanins: Powerful Agent
Particularly rich in the anthocyanins giving sour cherries their hue is the Montmorency cherry. The deep crimson hue of the fruit and its anti-inflammatory properties depend on these pigments. Anthocyanins are a subgroup of flavonoids, which are antioxidants said to lower systemic inflammation.
Though inflammation is a normal immune response, many health problems can be aggravated by ongoing inflammation. Anthocyanins’ free radical scavenging and anti-inflammatory action is what makes them useful.
Tart cherry studies on inflammation
Numerous studies on the relationship between tart cherries and inflammation have yielded conflicting results.
In 2012, Arthritis & Rheumatology published a study examining how sour cherry juice might alleviate osteoarthritis (OA) pain. Twice daily sour cherry juice drinkers for three weeks showed notable pain and stiffness reductions over the placebo group. Blood testing also revealed less cherry juice group inflammatory indicators.
Exercise Recovery: Studies point to tart cherries possibly helping athletes and anyone else with muscular soreness following exercise. Studies have shown that drinking tart cherry juice either before or after exercise helps reduce inflammation and muscular pain, therefore hastening recovery.
Tart Cherries and Other Disorders Affecting Inflammation
Although studies on tart cherries for particular inflammatory conditions are under progress, some preliminary results are positive:
The inflammatory arthritis known as gout results from too high uric acid levels in the blood. Early research indicates that sour cherry anthocyanins could help reduce uric acid levels, hence perhaps preventing gout flare-ups.
various conditions: Scientists are looking at tart cherries’ potential benefits for lowering inflammation connected to various diseases including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Still, more study in these fields is required.
Tart Cherries for Inflammation
There are many ways you could include tart cherries into your diet:
Tart Cherry Juice: This is a sensible option; studies indicate daily use of 1-2 cups (240-480 ml) would be beneficial. Watch additional sugars in commercially produced juices; choose unsweetened varieties or make your own juice right at home.
Tart cherries, fresh or frozen: Use them in baking, toss them into oatmeal or yogurt, or enjoy them on their own.
Tart Cherry Treatments: Although there are tart cherry capsules or powders, ask your doctor before starting any supplements.
Key Issues
Though most people seem to find tart cherries safe, it’s important to take into account:
Tart cherry juice can be high in sugar, hence moderation is advised especially for those with diabetes or blood sugar problems.
Medications: Tart cherries could interfere with some medications; hence, if you use any prescriptions, think about their intake under consultation with your doctor.
Tart cherries have inherent ability to lower pain and inflammation. The main process behind this potential effect seems to be the anthocyanin concentration. Although particular diseases need for more study, including tart cherries into your diet can be a safe and fun approach to improve your general wellness. Recall that before using any dietary supplements or alternative therapies for pain or inflammation, it is advised always to see your doctor.