The Benefits Of Montmorency Cherries

The Montmorency cherry is a sour or tart cherry most used in cooking to make pies, jams, marmalades and cherries jubilee. It also used to make juice and dried cherries. Because it is most often used to make sweet baked goods, you may not think of the Montmorency cherry as a healthy food item. But the Montmorency cherry is a rich source of nutrients that help fight disease and keep you healthy.

Antioxidants

Montmorency cherries are a source of antioxidants, including vitamin A, vitamin C and beta-carotene. Tart cherries, like Montmorency, have as much antioxidant power as strawberries, according to a 2004 study published in "Journal of Biomedicine and Biotechnology." Antioxidants are substances in food that protect your cells against oxidative damage, which has been linked to health problems such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer. In addition to protecting your from chronic illness, the antioxidants in the tart cherries also enhance immunity.

Anti-inflammatory Agent

Anthocyanin is a flavonoid responsible for the Montmorency cherry's red color. In addition to acting as an antioxidant, anthocyanin also has anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate pain. A 2009 study published in the "Journal of Medicinal Food" investigated the effects of a diet enriched with tart cherries on inflammation in obesity-prone rats. The researchers found a reduction in systemic and local inflammation in the rats fed a tart cherry enriched diet. As an anti-inflammatory agent, including anthocyanin-rich Montmorency cherries in your diet may help alleviate the inflammatory pain associated with arthritis. More research is necessary, however, before formal recommendations can be made.

Heart Benefits

The flavonoids and fiber in Montmorency cherries also make them a good choice for your heart. In addition to aiding in pain relief, the anti-inflammatory effects of the anthocyanins also reduce risk of heart disease. As a fruit, the tart cherries are also a source of fiber, containing 3 g of fiber in a 1-cup serving. The fiber in the cherries can help lower blood cholesterol levels and further reduce risk of heart disease.

Fight Jet Lag

Montmorency cherries are a source of melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone that helps balance the body's circadian rhythm, or sleep cycle. When it is dark, your body produces more melatonin, and it produces less when it is light. Being exposed to bright lights at night or to too much daylight, such as when you fly, can disrupt your circadian rhythm. If you work the night shift or are suffering from jet lag, Montmorency cherries may help balance your melatonin levels to improve your sleep.