Cherry, tart

Definition

Tart cherries are the stone fruit of cultivars of the Prunus cerasus tree. These include Morello, Montmorency, and Amarelle cherries.

Health considerations

Tart cherries are a source of vitamins C, A, E, and K, as well as a variety of antioxidants and beta carotene. Tart cherry juice has been the subject of multiple exercise-based studies, and has shown benefits to reducing muscle pain following running and weight lifting sessions. Tart cherry juice consumption decreases oxidative stress, and has been studied as a sleep aid in insomniac patients. There is some evidence that it may improve cholesterol levels in diabetic patients with high cholesterol.

Keep in mind

Tart cherries have a somewhat lesser sugar content than sweet cherries, but the same glycemic index.

May be found in

Sour cherry juice, fresh, frozen

References

Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition
European Journal of Nutrition
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
Nutrition & Food Science
Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports
Journal of Medicinal Food
Molecules

Alternative Spellings and Names

Cherry, sour