7 Health Benefits of Drinking Tart Cherry Juice

Tart cherry juice has become very popular in recent times due to its many health benefits. Tart cherries, also known as montmorency, dwarf or sour cherries, are similar to sweet cherries but slightly more acidic. Apart from sweet cherries, which are usually eaten raw, sour cherries can be consumed in various forms, frozen, dried, powdered or juiced. Tart cherry juice is also full of essential minerals and antioxidants that benefit the body. Adding this organic and nutritious tart cherry juice to your daily routine is a good idea for your health. If you are curious about the health benefits of tart cherry juice, let’s dive into it.

What are the health benefits of tart cherry juice?

Here are some important health benefits of tart cherry juice as explained by nutritionist Twincy Ann Sunil.

1. Reduces inflammation

According to a study published in the journal Nutrients MDPI, tart cherries contain compounds such as anthocyanins and other antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory properties that help manage conditions such as arthritis and muscle pain.

2. Induces sleep

Tart cherry juice is a natural source of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Drinking tart cherry juice can help improve sleep quality and duration, which is beneficial for people with insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns.

3. Exercise improves recovery

If you have muscle aches, you can add tart cherry juice to relieve it. A study published in the Wiley Scandinavian Journal of Medical and Science in Sports suggests that tart cherry juice can help reduce muscle soreness. Tart cherries have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help reduce muscle soreness and speed recovery from exercise.

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4. Promotes heart health

Antioxidants in tart cherries contribute to heart health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, help lower BP and improve cholesterol levels, says Sunil.

5. Relieves joint pain

Tart cherry juice is good for people with joint pain. Tart cherry juice can effectively reduce osteoarthritis and gout symptoms, according to research published in the journal Current Nutrient Development.

6. Rich in antioxidant properties

The antioxidant properties in tart cherries help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, reducing damage caused by oxidative stress. It reduces the risk of diseases like heart disease and some cancers.

7. Promotes brain health

Tart cherries are good for your brain too! A study published in the journal IMC suggests that the antioxidants in tart cherries may have neuroprotective effects, potentially reducing the risk of age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

How to prepare tart cherry juice?

Preparing tart cherry juice at home is a very simple task. Here is a simple recipe for making tart cherry juice:

1. Wash the tart cherries thoroughly with cold water and remove the pits.
2. Place the pitted tart cherries in a blender or food processor.
3. Add 1-2 cups of water to the blender, depending on how thick or thin you want your juice to be. Start by adding a small amount of water and add more as needed to reach your desired consistency.
3. Blend cherries and water until smooth.
4. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the pulp.
5. Taste the juice and adjust the level of sweetness if desired.
6. You can serve the tart cherry juice immediately over ice or refrigerate for later use.

Homemade tart cherry juice usually keeps for 3-5 days in the refrigerator.

Are there any side effects of tart cherry juice?

1. Gastrointestinal discomfort

Consuming large amounts of tart cherry juice may cause gastrointestinal problems such as bloating, gas, abdominal pain, or diarrhea, especially in those with sensitive stomachs or underlying digestive conditions.

2. Allergic reactions

Some people may be allergic to cherries or sensitive to salicylates, a natural compound found in cherries. Allergic reactions to tart cherry juice can include symptoms such as itching, swelling, hives, difficulty breathing or, in severe cases, anaphylaxis.

3. May react with other substances

Tart cherry juice may interact with certain medications, including thinning medications such as warfarin and medications that are metabolized by the liver. Interactions may affect the effectiveness of medications or increase the risk of side effects.

4. Increased BP sugar levels

Tart cherry juice contains natural sugars and consuming it in large amounts can cause a rapid rise in sugar levels, especially in people with diabetes or those who need to monitor their sugar levels closely.

5. Kidney stones may form

Tart cherry juice is high in oxalates, compounds that contribute to the formation of kidney stones in susceptible individuals. Drinking large amounts of tart cherry juice may increase the risk of kidney stone formation, especially in people with a history of kidney stones or kidney disease.

6. Weight gain

Because of its natural sugar content, regular consumption of tart cherry juice in large amounts can contribute to weight gain, especially if not balanced with a healthy diet and regular physical activity.

7. Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Although tart cherry juice is generally safe for pregnant and lactating women, it is advisable to consult a medical professional before adding it to the diet.

“Tart cherry juice should be consumed in moderation and be aware of individual tolerance and potential side effects,” says the expert. If you experience any adverse reactions or are concerned about adding tart cherry juice to your diet, it is best to consult a healthcare professional.