| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 50 | 3% |
| Total Fat | 0.3g | 1% |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1g | 1% |
| Cholesterol | 0mg | 0% |
| Sodium | 1mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 12g | 4% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.9g | 8% |
| Sugars | 9g | - |
| Protein | 1g | 2% |
| Vitamin C | 12.2mg | 20% |
| Calcium | 10mg | 1% |
| Iron | 0.3mg | 2% |
| Vitamin A | 69IU | 1% |
| Vitamin K | 5.2mcg | 6% |
| Potassium | 187mg | 5% |
| Folate | 8mcg | 2% |
| Melatonin | 0 |
Health Benefits of Cherries
- May reduce inflammation: Cherries contain compounds like anthocyanins and melatonin that have anti-inflammatory effects and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as gout, osteoarthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
- Good for the heart: The anthocyanins found in cherries have been found to have a positive impact on heart health by lowering blood pressure and improve overall circulation.
- May improve sleep: Cherries are a natural source of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep. Eating a small serving of cherries before bed or taking a melatonin supplement can help promote better sleep quality and duration.
- May aid in weight management: Cherries are low in calories and high in fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied. Additionally, they are also high in antioxidants, which may help boost your metabolism.
- Good for skin: The anthocyanins found in cherries have been found to have a positive impact on skin by reducing UV damage and also have anti-aging effects.
- May boost brain health: Studies have found that cherries may help improve memory and cognitive function. The antioxidant compounds in cherries may also help protect the brain from age-related damage.
How to Store Cherries
Unripe cherries
Unripe cherries should not be refrigerated as it can cause damage to the fruit and slow down the ripening process. They should be stored at room temperature in a cool, dry place until they are fully ripe. You can check their ripeness by gently pressing on the stem end of the cherry and if it gives slightly to pressure, it's likely ripe and ready to eat.
Ripe cherries
Ripe cherries should be stored in the refrigerator to extend their shelf life. They should be placed in a plastic bag with small holes to allow for air circulation. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Frozen cherries
Cherries can be frozen for long-term storage. To freeze cherries, first, rinse them and let them dry completely. Next, remove the stems and any damaged or overripe cherries. You can freeze them whole or pitted. Place them in an airtight container or a freezer bag, remove as much air as possible and seal. Frozen cherries can be stored for up to 6 months in the freezer.
It's important to note that freezing will change the texture of the fruit, and while they may not be suitable for eating fresh, they can be used in cooking, baking or smoothies.
When you're ready to use the frozen cherries, take them out of the freezer and let them thaw at room temperature before using. Always check the cherries for signs of spoilage, such as mold, discoloration, or off odors, before using them. It's better to discard any cherry that shows signs of spoilage to avoid the risk of food poisoning.
Best Time to Consume Cherries
Cherries are a delicious and nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. However, certain times may be better suited for consuming cherries based on your dietary goals and the timing of other meals.
In the morning
Consuming cherries in the morning can be a great way to start your day on a healthy note. They are a good source of antioxidants, which can help boost your immune system and protect your body from the damage caused by free radicals. Eating a small serving of cherries as part of your breakfast, such as a smoothie, yogurt or oatmeal, can provide you with a balanced meal that will help you to have a energized day.
As a snack
Eating cherries as a snack can be a great way to curb your hunger and provide your body with a boost of nutrients. They are low in calories, high in fiber and high in antioxidants. Eating cherries as a snack can also help you to reach your daily requirement of vitamin C and vitamin K
In the evening
Consuming cherries in the evening can be a great way to end your day on a healthy note. They are a natural source of melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate sleep. Eating a small serving of cherries before bed can help promote better sleep quality and duration. Adding cher
Cherry Allergies
Cherry allergies are relatively rare, but they can cause severe reactions in some people. Allergic reactions to cherry can occur after consuming the fruit or touching the tree.
Symptoms of a cherry allergy
Symptoms of a cherry allergy can vary, but some common symptoms include:
- Skin rash or hives
- Itching
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Anaphylaxis (a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction)
- Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Asthmatic symptoms such as wheezing and difficulty breathing
Cross-reactivity
People who are allergic to cherry may also be allergic to other fruits and vegetables, such as apple, peach, pear, apricot and almonds, as they share similar protein structure. Additionally, if you have a birch pollen allergy, you may also be allergic to cherry and other related fruits.
Diagnosis and treatment
If you suspect that you have a cherry allergy, it's important to speak with an allergist. They will perform a physical examination and may also perform a skin-prick test or blood test to confirm the allergy. Once a cherry allergy is confirmed, it's important to avoid all forms of cherry, including cherry juice and cherry sauce. If you have anaphylaxis, be sure to carry an epinephrine auto-injector and know how to use it.