Tart cherries are a healthy snack that can provide many health benefits. Tart cherries contain melatonin which can help with regulating sleep. It is also a good source of fiber and antioxidants. Tart cherries have anti-inflammatory properties that can help with arthritis and gout by reducing uric acid levels. These anti-inflammatory properties also improve muscle recovery after exercise. Tart cherries have also been known to help lower blood pressure by reducing C-reactive protein levels.
Tart cherries can be bought in many different forms. Tart cherries are offered in juice form, but watch when it comes to added sugars. For health benefits, be sure to buy unsweetened tart cherry juice. Frozen tart cherries are a good choice as well. If cherries are not your thing, tart cherry supplements do exist that could prove to be beneficial to your health.
Overall, tart cherries are a good evening snack choice. They provide you with melatonin to help you sleep. They carry antioxidants to reduce inflammation so that your sleep is more restful. They will keep you full through the night due to their fiber content. Plus, it will get that extra serving of fruit into your diet.
Shafer, J. (2021, May 19). 4 ways you\’ve underestimated tart cherries, a fruit that can help you sleep. Better Homes & Gardens. Retrieved October 20, 2021, from https://www.bhg.com/recipes/healthy/eating/tart-cherry-juice-benefits/
Shoen, S. (2021, September 10). Does tart cherry juice promote better sleep? Sleep Foundation. Retrieved October 20, 2021, from https://www.sleepfoundation.org/nutrition/tart-cherry-juice.