Cherries

Cherries are one of my favorite fruits that I take full advantage of in the summer months when they are in season. Cherries can be expensive to purchase, so I recommend going down to your local farmers market where they are most likely cheaper than store bought cherries. There are a couple different types of cherries with Rainier cherries and Bing cherries being the most popular. Cherries have a sweet flavor with a pit and stem that should be removed before eating. Cherries are a rich source of the antioxidant anthocyanin that help balance free radicals produced in the body.

Free radicals// Free radicals are produced in the body (exposure to sun, exercise, damage to cell). Too many free radicals cause oxidative damage to healthy tissues and induces aging. For those who enjoy chemistry: Free radicals are an unpaired electron in orbit around the nucleus of an atom. In order to regain balance, antioxidants are able to neutralize free radicals and protect the cell from oxidation.

Research studies
Peer-reviewed journals

The high antioxidant levels in cherries are associated with reducing oxidative damage and inflammation (shown in this study, and here).

Nutrients// Based on 1 cup of cherries
—–>Dietary Fibre// 2g (10% DV)
—–>Vitamin C// 26% DV
—–>Vitamin A// 40% DV
—–>Iron// 3% DV

How to select// Choose cherries that are firm and have smooth skin.
How to store// Store cherries in refrigerator up to 1-2 weeks. Do not wash until ready to eat.
How to eat// Raw, in desserts, jams, juice

What’s your favorite type of cherry?

Get weekly healthy recipe post sent to your inbox! Sign up today and get a FREE resource guide on my top tips for eating healthy while on a budget! (Sign up on top right hand side or bottom of page!)

You can also find me on: Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest

[wysija_form id=”2″]