The amazing health benefits of Cherries!

If you live in the Marina Alta, you will have noticed that cherries are in season. They are in the supermarkets and on the stalls at your local produce market. You will also see folks selling them at the side of the road and on the streets as you walk around our beautiful towns and villages. In other countries you can buy them all year round, imported from far and wide, but here, you eat them, fresh from the tree and only when they are in season. The best way to buy them is at the roadside, from the local people who have their own trees. You can guarantee they are freshly harvested that morning and they are absolutely delicious!

Furthermore, the “cherry on top” is the health benefits! This fruit is a real star when it comes to nutritional value. Cherries are bursting with vitamin C, potassium, protective antioxidants and sleep promoting melatonin.

6 main health benefits of Cherries;

(1) Anti-inflammatory- Cherries are rich in antioxidants which reduce inflammation. This helps with conditions like arthritis, gout and muscle fatigue after exercise.

(2) Heart Health- Cherries are rich in potassium and plant compounds which regulate blood pressure and help prevent cardiovascular disease.

(3) Regulates blood sugar levels- Cherries have a low glycaemic index, which means carbohydrates are digested slowly, so there are no sharp spikes in blood sugar levels.

(4) Helps lower the cholesterol VLDL (Very Low Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol)- This is the cholesterol that contributes to plaque build up in the arteries.

(5) Immune system support- Cherries are full of Vitamin C which fights infection and cell damage.

(6) Promotes healthy sleep patterns- Cherries contain melatonin which is the hormone we need to get a good nights sleep.

Furthermore, recent studies have also shown that cherries have anticarcinogenic properties which means they may also help with the prevention of cancer.

Here at Jacaranda Spain we love to promote local produce here in the beautiful Vall del Pop (Jalon Valley), especially when we know how it promotes a healthy lifestyle. The Spanish cherries that you buy here are jewels, bursting with flavour and nutrients. Whatsmore, they are straight from the tree and usually free from pesticides. We love them warm with ice cream, baked in a tart, or best of all, straight from the punnet while you unload your shopping (but don´t forget to save a few to eat before you go to bed)!