Yesterday, we drew you in with the many ways to enjoy strawberries, and today, it's time to get you thinking about cherries!
Cherries are great because they are known for having quite a few health benefits. They have been shown to lower cholesterol and triglycerides, reduce inflammation, arthritis, and pain, and help stop weight gain. If you eat about 10 cherries each day, the week before menstruation women have said you will experience an easier cycle and reduced cramps. Some reports have even said that eating 20 cherries a day can ward off inflammation altogether. They also contain a high amount of antioxidants which are vital for preserving cells and protecting them against damage from free radicals or cancer.
Red cherries have melatonin in them, which helps fight disease-causing agents and supports better sleep. A good source of Vitamin C and fiber, cherries are a low-fat, low-cholesterol, low-sodium food, making them a great healthy snack and dieter’s friend. Just remember that the darker the cherry, the more nutrients and health benefits it has—and sour cherries have more health benefits than sweet ones.
Now that you're really craving them, here are some great ways to enjoy cherries this summer.
Make them chocolate-dipped. Just like strawberries, cherries LOVE chocolate. Go all out with this one and treat your backyard party to some cherries in fondue! Be sure to have a bowl for the pits. This one will give your gifts a little classy with a little messy!
Cherry Coke. Grab a traditional coke or one of the great natural brands of cola, pit and slice some cherries and drop them in the glass! Let it sit for a few minutes and then enjoy your own real cherry coke!
Cherry Morning. Many breakfast bars and cereals contain cherries, as do some flavors of yogurt. Why not make your own? Add sliced cherries to oatmeal or yogurt and know that the cherries are fresh with nothing artificial added to them. If nothing else, blend the cherries in with your morning protein shake! or yogurt.

Cherries and Cream. Who doesn't like cherries in their ice cream?
Cherry Iced Tea. Freeze cherries and then drop them in your cup of iced tea for a cute and yummy way to add flavor and flare to your drink! This is a great party idea!
Make sure you try different varieties. If you don’t like the tart varieties (Morello and Montmorency cherries), try something sweet, like Bing, Royal Ann, Rainier, or Lambert cherries! Remember... darker ones are higher in antioxidants!

No comments:
Post a Comment