Cherries are a must-have for any party or BBQ, whether they are crushed into a cocktail or eaten as a fresh out-of-hand snack.
More than just a delicious fruit, cherries are low in calories, high in fiber and packed full of nutrients. In observing the season for cherry, Northwest Cherries, a leading American cherry grower, shares five reasons why you should include cherries in your diet.
Slows the aging of skin
Cherries are powerful little nuggets of nutrition packed with antioxidants. Antioxidants help the body fight the free radicals that make us look old.
Good for the heart
Cherries helps regulate heart rate and blood pressure and aids heart health.
Protection from Diabetes
Its low calorie and low glycemic index attributes make them an ideal fruit for people who are suffering from diabetes and for weight watchers.
Help you sleep better
Cherries are also unique because in Mother Nature they are the only source of melatonin which is a hormone produced in our pineal gland that regulates our sleep.
Lowers risk of gout attacks
Cherries are full of potassium, which aids inflammatory diseases such as gout and arthritis, reduces the risk of hypertension and stroke, while promoting the heart and kidneys to function properly.
Northwest Cherries can be enjoyed easily on its own, pitted in salads, on oatmeal, or stirred into yogurts and ice cream. Add them for depth to savory dishes or simply rinse, pack and freeze them whole for use in smoothies, sauces, and frozen desserts when cherries are out of season. For a healthier option, you can even dehydrate the cherries and add them to trail mixes or granola. Better yet, simply serve the convenient and nutritional powerhouses in a bowl for sharing.
