And you thought the cherry was a pretty fruit. Recent studies suggest there’s more to the cherry’s biting red colour than just aesthetics. Cherry juice might not be a favourite yet but studies suggest it should be, especially with those on regular exercise. According to a study in the British Journal of Sports, cherry juice if taken regularly can reduce muscle pains and damages induced by gyming and other workout-related soreness and strength loss. And for those suffering from chronic pain of arthritis and gout, cherry juice can work wonders.

The study says cherry juice has certain compounds called “anthocyanins” which are the pigments that give cherries their bright red colour and are believed to be the key to helping relieve inflammation. As an added bonus, these same anthocyanins can reduce the risk of colon cancer. Twenty cherries provide 25mg of anthocyanins which help shut down the enzymes that cause tissue inflammation so cherries can prevent and treat many kinds of pain. The anthocyanins may also protect artery walls from damage that leads to plaque build-up and heart diseases. Recent studies show that anthocyanins do a better job of protecting arteries than Vitamin C and E. “Cherries have been used as a folk remedy for arthritis for many years, presumably because of its anti-inflammatory effects,” says Dr Sakshi Chawla.

Belonging to the Rosaceae family, including almonds, peaches, plums and apricots, cherries can prove valuable in tackling free radicals. During normal metabolism, oxygen can create damaging by-products called free radicals. If left unchecked, these may cause heart damage or cancer besides weakening the immune system. Anti-oxidants counteract free radicals by binding with them before they can cause damage, transforming them into harmless compounds. Antioxidants also help maintain cell integrity. Ongoing research by the Cherry Marketing Institute (CMI) has shown that cherries contain at least 17 different compounds with anti-oxidant properties. Naturally occurring compounds in fruits and vegetables, anti-oxidants are in abundance in the deep red of cherry. “Cherry juice has many anti-oxidants which are considered more potent than vitamins C, E and A,” says Chawla. “It is an excellent natural pain killer too.”

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