Hypertension is one of the most common ailments in the world, affecting millions every year. If it is not controlled using medication and a healthy lifestyle, it could lead to life-threatening complications like heart disease and stroke.
The ill effects of hypertension on the body
All you cherry-philes out there, there’s good news for you. Our grandmothers have always been right about how we could benefit from a fruity diet and drink. That glass of cherry juice, with its bright color and sweet-tangy deliciousness, is actually good for keeping blood pressure under control.
How It work?
Importance of Phytochemicals
- The phytochemicals present in cherries, which give them their red color, are also known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- These compounds are known to fight inflammation, help prevent muscle damage, and fight depression and anxiety.
- The phytochemicals, specifically known as anthocyanins and polyphenols, can help neutralize free radicals, which increase blood pressure.
- Anthocyanins are fighters of all cardiovascular problems and are also known to regulate blood sugar.
The greatest progress in systolic blood pressure happened when phenolic acids within the cherry concentrate reached their peak levels in blood plasma.
Evidence
Several types of research are being conducted to study the health benefits of red cherry juice. In a study by Northumbria University, they established that the tart Montmorency cherry juice helped reduce blood pressure in persons showing early signs of hypertension. It was found to be as effective as conventional medicine.
Another result presented at the Experimental Biology Meeting by researchers from the University of Michigan, Brunswick Labs, and the University of Arizona showed how cherry juice lowered inflammation and helped lose weight, thereby regulating blood pressure.
How to Consume Cherry Juice?
Consume the tart juice of Montmorency cherry concentrates, which has been diluted with water twice a day. Go for concentrates from companies like Dynamic Health, Fruitfast, R W Knudson, etc, which are low sugar. Otherwise, you can always make your own juice using fresh cherries and no sugar. All the studies have been related to Montmorency cherries; hence, choose them if you are preparing your own juice.
Other Benefits of Cherry Juice
While tart cherry juice is great for your blood pressure, there are other benefits as well.
- It helps in post-workout recovery. It is high in potassium, which is important for the conduction of electrical impulses in your body.
- Since it fights inflammation, it’s good for those suffering from arthritis, and it helps reduce swelling and pain.
- Since cherry has powerful antioxidants, it help boost your immunity.
- It also aids in weight loss and can be consumed by those on a diet.
- Certain studies indicate that they even block cancer growth.
It’s important that you consult a doctor before making a decision since diabetics are at risk with any kind of juice. Always take professional help, and if you get the green signal, go ahead and try cherry juice, which is an elixir to your blood pressure woes.