These tasty, summery fruits are packed with health benefits. 

They’re a good source of minerals like potassium, zinc, and iron, as well as trace minerals like copper and manganese, as well as very rich sources of antioxidants. 

Melatonin, one of the antioxidants found in cherries, acts in the brain to induce sleep, and getting dietary sources such as cherries can help relieve insomnia, as well as tension headaches.  Cherries also contain anthocyanins, which are antioxidants that may have powerful effects for relieving pain, which is good news for those with fibromyalgia and arthritis. 

The use of cherry juice was also recently studied with marathon runners, looking at its potential benefits for recovery – these benefits were attributed to its anthocyanin content.

Try cherries in the raw; as a good-quality, pure juice; in a healthy raw dessert such as a raw tart; or in a smoothie (check out May’s Recipe of the Month for a smoothie recipe featuring cherries, perfect after a workout!).