Cherry Juice Cures
Current research seems to support the claims for tart cherry juice cures. Research suggests that this small fruit, packed with antioxidants, may help with pain and inflammation. It also may aid in preventing heart disease and certain cancers.
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Anthocyanins
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Anthocyanins is the antioxidant flavonoid found in dark red and purple fruits and vegetables. Tart cherry juice contains high amounts of anthocyanins, which is the key ingredient believed to fight against inflammatory ailments, heart attack/stroke, colon cancer and fibromyalgia.
Gout/Arthritis
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According to the National Institutes of Health, a study conducted at Johns Hopkins Hospital by Jill M. Tall, Ph.D., concluded that anthocyanins had strong anti-inflammatory properties. Cherry juice, a source of anthocyanins, shows credible use for the treatment of gout and arthritis.
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Fibromyalgia
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Tart cherry juice can increase melatonin levels for those that suffer from fibromyalgia. Increased melatonin levels can improve sleep--part of the treatment plan for people with fibromyalgia. Cherry juice also may help relieve pain. Anthocyanins have been found to have the same effect as ibuprofen for pain relief.
Heart Disease/Stroke
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According to research at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, cherry juice contains cyclooxegenase (COX) inhibitors, which block the cyclooxegenase enzyme responsible for atherosclerosis.
Colon Cancer
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According to research conducted at Michigan State University, anthocyanins and cyanidin found in tart cherry juice may reduce the risk of colon cancer. Cyanidin is a compound that may inhibit tumor growth.
Warnings
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The FDA warns of companies distributing tart cherry juice as a cure, treatment or prevention of a disease. Research is still being conducted about the benefits of tart cherry juice. Exercise caution when using any alternative treatment plan.
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References
- Photo Credit Wikimedia Commons
