Tart cherries contain high concentrations of phytochemicals including melatonin, which is involved in the regulation of our sleep cycles. There has been mixed research as to whether cherries, and specifically cherry juice, is of benefit to those who have trouble sleeping but the signs are encouraging. I have difficulties getting and staying asleep so, I've decided to give these fresh cherries a try to find out if if will help me sleep. I ate about 8oz cup of cherries just before bedtime and about 25 minutes later I notice I became very tired and relaxed. I was trying to fight it off by staying up to finish a project I started on my pc but my eyes became to heavy to stay awake. I jumped into bed and dosed off in minutes, lol. They work for me!
Cherries are not for everyone!
Not everyone is able to enjoy cherries, as some people may have an allergy to the fruit. This can be a primary allergy, whereby you are allergic to the fruit, or secondary, when you are allergic to pollens from the same family of plants. A secondary allergy occurs as a result of cross reactivity, for example, if you are allergic to birch tree pollen you may experience an allergy to fruit such as cherries as well as others including apples, plums and peaches.As long as you do not have an allergy to the fruit, cherries make a valuable addition to the diet. Enjoy fresh when in season, or as a juice or dried.
Caution
Cherries are a natural source of salicylates, which some people may be sensitive to. Eating a lot of cherries may lead to diarrhea, gas, or bloating for those who have a salicylate sensitivity," cautions Leah Johnston, RDN
