Tart Cherries May Provide Heart Health Benefits

New research suggests tart cherries may offer heart health benefits.

Cardiovascular disease remains the No. 1 killer of both men and women in North America. Changes in diet and exercise can go a long way in helping to keep your heart healthy.

Researchers believe Montmorency tart cherries may provide a number of cardiovascular benefits due to the intensity of anthocyanins inside these ruby-red fruits. Studies indicate that tart cherries may help lower levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, reduce inflammation and improve belly fat – all factors specifically linked to heart disease risk.

Be sure to add ruby red Montmorency tart cherries to your healthy-heart diet.

Let’s look at the studies!

1 – A study on the effects of Montmorency tart cherry consumption on vascular function in men with early hypertension.

A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover study of 15 men with early hypertension found that the participants who consumed tart cherry juice concentrate (60mL, or the equivalent of 180 tart cherries) experienced a reduction in systolic blood pressure, but not microvascular reactivity or arterial stiffness.

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“Montmorency tart cherry intake acutely reduces SBP in men with early hypertension. These benefits may be mechanistically linked to the actions of circulating phenolic acids.”
– American Society for Nutrition

2 – A study on the effects of Montmorency tart cherries on blood pressure.

A study of 27 men and women (ages 45-60 years) with moderately elevated blood pressure were randomly assigned to receive 60mL of Montmorency tart cherry juice concentrate or a placebo beverage.

Those consuming tart cherry juice experienced a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure over a 3-hour period after consumption. Cognitive function and mood were not affected.

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How can I incorporate tart cherries into my diet?

Look for ways to add Montmorency tart cherries to your heart-healthy eating plan. Start off the day with a glass of Montmorency tart cherry juice or top your steel-cut oats with dried Montmorency tart cherries and walnuts.

If you’re eating more omega 3-rich salmon, keep a bag of frozen Montmorency tart cherries in your freezer to make a cherry glaze to top the fish.

You can also try our fantastic range of delicious tart cherry recipes. Add a pop of colour, a nutrient punch and a hint of sweet-tart flavor to overnight oats, grain bowls, salads, side dishes, trail mixes and much more.

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So where do Montmorency Tart Cherries come from?

Tart or sour cherries (Prunus cerasus) are an American fruit, grown primarily in seven U.S. states: Michigan, Utah, Wisconsin, Washington, Oregon, Pennsylvania and New York. The U.S. variety is called Montmorency.

While the name may come from a valley in France, Montmorency tart cherries are strictly grown in the U.S. So when you buy Montmorency tart cherries, you’re supporting American family farms, all the way from the UK.

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What other health benefits do tart cherries offer?

Studies on these ruby red superfruits have also included research on gout, exercise recovery, sleep, heart health and gut health. Take a look at the many reasons to eat more Montmorency tart cherries.