Benefits of Cherry Juice for Arthritis

It is common knowledge that a healthy lifestyle and proper eating habits play an important role in preventing the frequency of many serious diseases and disorders and fruit or fruit juices, are undeniably an integral part of a healthy diet. Many scientific researches and studies carried out in this regard, have further highlighted the health benefits of several fruits, out of which the cherry is an important one. This bright ruby-red fruit is quite popular for its characteristic sweet and tangy taste and potential health benefits.

Arthritis is actually not a single disease, but refers to more than hundred conditions that affect the joints, where two or more bones are connected. It is usually characterized by the inflammation of the joints and the resulting pain and stiffness.

The tart variety of cherry has been a subject of many researches executed by scientists and medical universities for its possible effect in relieving joint pain associated with arthritis. Some of these studies have revealed that tart cherry has anti-inflammatory properties and is a rich source of phytochemicals like anthocyanins, which impart ruby-red color to this fruit. There are more than 350 types of anthocyanins and tart cherry offers a unique blend of several of them.

It has been found by scientific studies that anthocyanins found in cherries can help inhibit the enzymes cyclooxygenase 1 and 2. These can block the signals of pain transmitted to the brain, and so the body does not feel pain. So it is also a natural painkiller or analgesic. This result has indicated the possibility of using cherry juice for arthritis. Besides tart cherries, black cherries also contain these compounds and hence, consuming them can be equally beneficial.

Many believe that most of the cherry juice health benefits can be attributed to the anthocyanins found in cherries. These anthocyanins are powerful antioxidants that can protect body cells and tissues from the oxidative damage caused by free radicals.

In addition to relieving pain associated with arthritis, cherry juice can also be beneficial in another condition, known as gout. Gout is the inflammation of the toe and foot caused by the error in uric acid metabolism, which results in the deposition of uric acid and its salts, in the blood stream and joints.

Cherry juice has been found to lower the level of uric acid in the blood and so can provide relief from gout.

Consumption of cherries can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, vascular headaches, heart attacks and strokes. Anthocyanins found in cherries, may also be effective in preventing colon cancer. Drinking cherry juice after strenuous exercises can reduce muscle soreness and also helps repair muscles.

In addition to anthocyanins, cherries are rich in melatonin, which can enhance memory and learning. Melatonin is required by our body to induce sleep and so, cherries can be useful in alleviating sleep disorders.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, melatonin also possess anti-inflammatory properties which helps in reducing inflammation caused by cardiovascular diseases and cancer.

They are abundant in dietary fiber, vitamins like vitamin A, C and E and some important minerals including potassium. 1 cup cherry juice or 2 tbsp of concentrated cherry juice daily can provide you with the benefits of cherry.

So, one of the most important health benefits of cherry juice is relieving the inflammation and pain caused by arthritis and gout. However, it is equally important for the patients of arthritis to exercise regularly, along with drinking cherry juice, to get better results.