Cherries are celebrated in music, bedtime stories, and with a U.S. holiday, National Cherry Pie Day, that occurs every February 20th. And it’s no wonder – fresh, juiced, and freeze dried cherries are delicious in every way. With a long list of health benefits, cherries are a treat you can feel good about adding to your diet. Here are some reasons why:
1. Cherries are High in Antioxidants
Freeze-dried cherries and other freeze-dried fruits and berries contain essential antioxidants, including anthocyanin, a substance that gives cherries their deep red coloring. These antioxidants work to prevent the development of free radicals (atoms in our bodies that can produce a negative chain reaction) and damage to our cells.
2. Cherries are Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relieving
When the body contains too many free radicals, the immune system kicks into overdrive to fight off harmful reactions. Therefore, the high level of antioxidants in cherries may support the body reduce inflammation, aches, and pains.
3. Cherries are a Sleep Aid
Studies suggest cherries are a food source of melatonin, a natural hormone used by the body to attain deep and restful sleep. Environmental factors and illnesses can reduce melatonin levels and interrupt healthy sleep patterns. Therefore, consumption of cherries may help provide a good night’s rest.
4. Cherries Contain Essential Nutrients
Cherries are a great source of natural fiber, potassium, copper, protein, iron, and carbohydrates. For more dietary info, check out Harmony House’s list of nutritional facts for our dried cherries.
5. Cherries May Lower Cholesterol
Cherries contain high levels of pectin, a dietary fiber commonly found in fruits. Studies suggest pectin may lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol.
6. Cherries May Lower Blood Sugar
The antioxidants in cherries have the potential to lower blood sugar levels by boosting the body’s natural insulin production.
7. Cherries are Immune Boosters
Dried cherries contain vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin E, all of which boost the immune system and help the body fight off illness.
8. Cherries are Delicious
Unsweetened dried cherries make a great stand-alone snack or an addition to cereals and salads. Dried cherry powder also adds a burst of fresh flavor to smoothies, pies, or any sweet recipe of choice. Harmony House’s dried cherries are made with extra care in order to keep fruit the way it should be: sweet and nutritious! They are always 100% natural, non-GMO, gluten free, and kosher, without any added sugars, additives or preservatives. Plus, we carefully remove the pits, so their delicious flavor is easy to enjoy.