If you're looking for a sweet and satisfying snack, red sour cherries packed in extra-heavy syrup are a great option. One cup of these cherries contains about 298 calories, making them a moderate treat that you can indulge in without going overboard on your daily calorie count.

Red sour cherries are also a good source of a variety of macronutrients and micronutrients like fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, among others.

In this article, we'll explore the many health benefits of red sour cherries and how you can incorporate them into your diet for a healthy boost.

Calories in 1 Cup Red Sour Cherries

As mentioned earlier, one cup of red sour cherries (packed in extra-heavy syrup) contains approximately 298 calories. This makes them a somewhat calorically-dense snack, but one that can still fit into a balanced diet in moderation.

Macronutrients and Micronutrients in 1 Cup Red Sour Cherries

Red sour cherries contain several important nutrients that can help support overall health. In one cup of these cherries, you'll get about 3 grams of fiber, 52% of the daily value for vitamin C, and 10% of the daily value for potassium. They also contain small amounts of other micronutrients like iron, calcium, and magnesium. Additionally, the fiber and natural sugars in red sour cherries may help support healthy digestion and blood sugar control.

Vitamins and Minerals in 1 Cup Red Sour Cherries

As mentioned above, red sour cherries are a great source of vitamin C and potassium. In addition to these nutrients, they also contain small amounts of other vitamins and minerals. One cup of red sour cherries provides about 2% of the daily value of vitamin A, 3% of the daily value of vitamin K, and small amounts of B vitamins like thiamine and riboflavin.

Health Benefits of Red Sour Cherries

Red sour cherries have been linked to several health benefits, thanks to their rich nutrient profile and natural plant compounds. For example, they may help reduce inflammation throughout the body, support healthy digestion and blood sugar control, and even improve brain function.

Red Sour Cherries and Weight Loss

While red sour cherries are somewhat calorically-dense, they can still fit into a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. Additionally, the fiber and natural sugars in these cherries may help keep you full and satisfied, making them a potentially helpful food for weight loss.

Red Sour Cherries and Heart Health

The nutrients and plant compounds in red sour cherries may help support heart health in several ways. For example, the potassium in these cherries may help lower blood pressure, while the antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds may help reduce the risk of heart disease.

Red Sour Cherries and Digestive Health

Thanks to their fiber content, red sour cherries may help promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation. They may also help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity in people with diabetes.

Red Sour Cherries and Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Red sour cherries contain several natural plant compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects in the body. These compounds may help reduce inflammation and pain throughout the body, making them potentially helpful for conditions like arthritis and gout.

Red Sour Cherries and Skin Health

The antioxidants and vitamin C in red sour cherries may help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals and UV radiation. Consuming these cherries regularly may help support healthy, glowing skin.

How to Incorporate Red Sour Cherries into Your Diet

There are many ways to enjoy red sour cherries in your diet. Some ideas include:

• Top plain yogurt or oatmeal with a handful of cherries for a sweet and satisfying breakfast.
• Mix chopped cherries with chopped nuts, diced apple, and a little honey for a healthy and tasty snack.
• Add cherries to smoothies or mixed fruit salad for an extra burst of flavor and nutrients.