What Are The Benefits Of Cherry Juice?

New "superfoods" seem to be reported in the media on an almost daily basis. The 21st century buzz word can be seen everywhere, even though the stated benefits of these so-called miracle foods may lack adequate research. The properties of cherries, however, have been studied extensively by reputable institutions and the results are generally positive. Nutritionists agree that cherry juice contains a number of highly beneficial qualities.

Anti-inflammatory Pain Relief

Cherries contain compounds known as anthocyanins. These pigments give cherries their bright red color. Anthocyanins decrease blood urate levels and provide relief from gout pain, says Jonny Bowden in his book "The 150 Healthiest Foods on Earth." The anti-inflammatory properties of anthocyanins also help to relieve pain caused by arthritis, back complaints and muscle damage.

Insomnia

Research suggests that cherry juice can help people suffering from insomnia. A pilot study conducted by researchers from the University of Pennsylvania, University of Rochester and VA Center of Canandaigua found that cherry juice has modest but beneficial effects for insomniacs. According to the National Sleep Foundation, the findings "open the gateway to exploring the benefits of cherry juice for insomniacs." Cherries contain melatonin, an antioxidant produced naturally by the body to help regulate sleep patterns.

Possible Cancer Prevention

In 2001, a study by the Department of Horticulture and National Food Safety and Toxicology Center found that cherries contained particularly high levels of antioxidants. These levels were "comparable to the commercial antioxidants, tert-butylhydroquinone, butylated hydroxytoluene and butylated hydroxyanisole, and superior to vitamin E." Antioxidant-rich cherries, therefore, could potentially offer a defense against cancer. Antioxidants are believed to protect cells against free radicals, molecules that may lead to cancer. Research is yet to prove conclusive but, according to the National Cancer Institute, "Considerable laboratory evidence from chemical, cell culture and animal studies indicates that antioxidants may slow or possibly prevent the development of cancer."

Heart Disease and Obesity

Although yet to prove conclusive, research suggests that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of cherries may help to reduce the risk of heart disease. According to Keith R. Martin and Lacey Burrell of Arizona State University, "Accumulating epidemiological evidence shows that diets rich in fruits, e.g., cherries, may significantly reduce risk, in part, via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities." Martin and Burrell conducted their own study involving 10 overweight or obese participants. The test subjects drank eight ounces of tart cherry juice daily for four weeks. Each subject was measured for biomarkers of inflammation caused by obesity before, during and after the test. Martin and Burrell concluded that collectively, "the data suggest that 100% tart cherry juice may reduce biomarkers of inflammation often noted in chronic disease." The reduction of these markers of inflammation could potentially have significant benefits in reducing the risk of heart disease.