Change up to cherries
You know the saying, ‘good things come in small packages’? This statement couldn’t ring any more true for the little cherry. Often overlooked in summer for other seasonal favourite, the strawberry, here eight great reasons why you should be introducing this little red number into your fruit bowl asap.
1. They’re packed with antioxidants. Cherries are exceptionally rich in antioxidants such as lutein, zaexanthin and beta carotene, all of which are important for eye health. These compounds act as protective scavengers against harmful free radicals that play a role in ageing, cancers and inflammation in the body.
2. They can boost your heart health. Cherries are high in potassium, which regulates heart rate and blood pressure and reduces the risk of hypertension and stroke. It’s also essential for proper kidney function.
3. They help reduce cholesterol. Phytosterols, also known as plant sterols, occur naturally in cherries. These help to reduce ‘bad’ cholesterol levels (LDL) to lower the risk of cancer, and stimulate the immune system.
4. They’re packed with multivitamins. Around 200g of cherries provides 10.8mg of vitamin C – 18 per cent of an adult’s RDA – alongside beta carotene and vitamins A, B6 and K. An all-round body-boost.
5. They’re a great source of fibre. About ten cherries will provide the body with 1.4 grams of fibre, which is nearly 10 per cent of an adult’s RDA. Your gut will love you for it.
6. They barely register on the calorie scale. One cherry is just four calories. Pass the bag…
7. They promote good sleep. Cherries are a rich food source of the hormone melatonin, which promotes healthy circadian rhythm and sleep patterns.
8. They help increase bone health. Cherries contain boron, which is essential for maintaining our skeletons. Sold!
Got any cherry recipes you love? Share them with us on Twitter (@healthymag), Facebook or Instagram (healthymagdaily).
With thanks to Seasonal Berries: seasonalberries.co.uk
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