Fruit juices have been getting a bad rap in recent years. This is mainly because more and more evidence is being uncovered which links the consumption of fruit juices to America’s growing problem with healthy conditions like obesity and diabetes. This is especially true for fruit juice “cocktails” which contain large amounts of high fructose corn syrup and artificial colors and flavors to mask the fact that they have very little juice.
However, some fruit juices – those that are pure and organic with no added ingredients – can carry with them important health benefits. One of these juices comes from tart cherries, and the benefits of this drinking this juice for inflammatory conditions is discussed below.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
Tart cherry juice has such strong anti-inflammatory properties that in several studies, it has shown to be as effective as over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain killers like Advil and Aleve, only without the side effects.
Alleviates Arthritis Symptoms
Osteoarthritis, is this aging society, is become a more widespread problem. Cherry juice can ease pain and stiffness in the joints and make them suppler, thus reducing other potential problems like falls.
Protects Against Gout
Gout is a particularly painful form of arthritis which is especially common in the joints of the feet; tart cherry juice can help to relieve this kind of arthritic condition as well.
Provides Benefits on Many Levels
Studies have shown that tart cherry juice works in different chemical reactions in the body to promote health by blocking certain enzymes, regulating blood glucose levels and strengthening antioxidants.
Reduces Heart Attack Risk
Regular use of tart cherry juice has been shown to lower both LDL and triglyceride levels, thus lowering the chance of a heart attack.
Helps Treat Obesity
Drinking tart cherry juice can treat obesity by helping to regulate blood sugar levels and reducing fat mass and overall body mass in those struggling to achieve weight loss goals.
Cuts Cancer Risk
Anthocyanins in tart cherry juice can help cut cancer risk by interfering with the way cancer cells reproduce themselves and also by cutting off blood flow to tumors.
Protects Muscles
Research has shown that tart cherry juice, drunk after a workout, can help protect against pain, stiffness and soreness.
Supports Neural Health
There is ample evidence to show that the anthocyanins and other compounds in cherry juice protect neurons and defends against neural diseases like Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s disease.
Promotes Longevity
Because it can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress and reduce the chance of developing serious diseases like cancer or Alzheimer’s, it is arguable that cherry juice also promotes a longer life.
Drinking cherry juice daily is a small lifestyle change to a make. Yet because of its amazing properties, this small change can have a big impact on the overall health of the body and reduce the chances of developing many serious medical conditions.
Sources: lef.org, livestrong.com, medicaldaily.com
More Entries by Rosalina