Are you looking for a healthy snack that won't derail your diet? Look no further than 2/3 cup (100 g) of unsweetened tart cherries! With only 45 calories per serving, this tasty treat is packed with numerous health benefits.
Not only are they low in calories, but tart cherries are also rich in Antioxidants, making them beneficial for your heart, sleep, and immune system. They're also a great source of Vitamin C and other essential nutrients.
In this article, we'll explore the many reasons why you should add unsweetened tart cherries to your diet, from their anti-inflammatory properties to their potential to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
Rich in Antioxidants
Tart cherries are packed with Antioxidants, which help to protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. This can reduce your risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Studies have also shown that the antioxidants in tart cherries may improve cognitive function, making them a great snack for students or anyone looking to give their brain a boost.
Boost Heart Health
Eating tart cherries may have numerous benefits for Heart health, including reducing inflammation and lowering blood pressure. The anthocyanins in tart cherries may also help to improve cholesterol levels and decrease the risk of plaque buildup in the arteries. In fact, a study conducted on postmenopausal women found that consuming tart cherry juice daily for six weeks resulted in significant decreases in blood pressure and LDL cholesterol levels.
May Improve Sleep Quality
If you struggle with sleep issues, tart cherries may be able to help. Tart cherry juice has been shown to improve sleep duration and quality, as well as reduce the severity of insomnia. This is thought to be due to the high levels of melatonin in tart cherries, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Consuming tart cherries or tart cherry juice may help to reset your internal clock and promote better sleep.
Reduce Inflammation
Inflammation is a natural response in the body, but chronic inflammation has been linked to numerous health issues, including heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. Thankfully, tart cherries are anti-inflammatory, which may help to reduce your risk of these diseases. One study found that consuming tart cherry juice daily for four weeks resulted in decreased levels of inflammation markers in the blood. Another study found that consuming tart cherries before and after a strenuous workout helped to reduce muscle soreness and inflammation.
Help with Post-Workout Recovery
If you're an active person, tart cherries may be able to help with Post-workout recovery. The Antioxidants in tart cherries help to reduce oxidative stress on the body, which can help to reduce muscle soreness and inflammation. One study found that consuming tart cherry juice twice daily for eight days resulted in reduced muscle damage and faster recovery time after a strenuous workout.
May Lower Risk of Certain Cancers
The high levels of Antioxidants in tart cherries may help to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. One study found that consumption of tart cherry juice reduced the growth of colon cancer cells in rats. Another study found that the compounds in tart cherries may help to inhibit the growth of cancerous cells in the breast.
Low in Calories
One of the best things about unsweetened tart cherries is that they are low in calories. A 2/3 cup (100 g) serving contains only 45 calories, making them a great snack for anyone watching their weight.
Good Source of Vitamin C
Tart cherries are also a great source of Vitamin C, an essential nutrient that is important for a healthy immune system, skin, and bones. In fact, a 2/3 cup (100 g) serving of unsweetened tart cherries contains 16% of your recommended daily intake of vitamin C.
May Help Relieve Arthritis Pain
Tart cherries may also be beneficial for those who suffer from arthritis. The anthocyanins in tart cherries have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to reduce joint pain and stiffness. A study on women with osteoarthritis found that consuming tart cherry juice twice daily for 21 days resulted in reduced inflammation and improved osteoarthritis symptoms.
Versatile and Delicious
Not only are unsweetened tart cherries healthy, but they're also delicious and versatile. Add them to your morning smoothie, sprinkle them on your yogurt or oatmeal, or enjoy them as a snack straight out of the bag. Tart cherries also make for a great ingredient in baked goods or homemade fruit spreads.
"Unsweetened tart cherries are a great snack option for anyone looking for a low-calorie, nutrient-dense food that is packed with antioxidants and other health benefits."
5 FAQs about Unsweetened Tart Cherries
1. What are Unsweetened Tart Cherries?
Unsweetened Tart Cherries are a type of cherry that is known for its sour taste. These cherries are typically smaller and more acidic than sweet cherries and are often used in cooking or baking. They are also sometimes used in supplements or as a juice for health benefits.
2. What are the health benefits of Unsweetened Tart Cherries?
Unsweetened Tart Cherries are a great source of Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. They have been shown to improve Sleep quality, reduce muscle soreness after exercise, and reduce inflammation in people with arthritis.
3. How can Unsweetened Tart Cherries be used in cooking?
Unsweetened Tart Cherries can be used in a variety of ways in cooking. They can be used in baked goods like pies and tarts, or they can be added to savory dishes like salads or roasted meats for a tangy flavor. They can also be used to make jams, jellies, and sauces.
4. Are Unsweetened Tart Cherries high in sugar?
No, Unsweetened Tart Cherries are not high in sugar. In fact, they are quite low in sugar compared to other types of fruit. One cup of Unsweetened Tart Cherries contains only 12 grams of sugar, which is less than half of what is found in a cup of sweet cherries.
5. Where can I buy Unsweetened Tart Cherries?
Unsweetened Tart Cherries can be found at most grocery stores, either fresh or frozen. They can also be found as a juice or supplement at health food stores or online retailers.