Cherries: antioxidant properties and unique benefits

The cherry tree is a small fruit tree from the city of Cerasonte (Asia Minor), according to the tradition itself. It belongs, in fact, to the Rosaceae family, and there are many varieties of cherries. We could almost say that the cherries They come to be the first fruits of summer, being characteristic of this beautiful time of year.

There are different types of cherries, and there are sweets (usually the best known as a rule), and bitter, and it is characterized by being a very refreshing fruit, which always feels good at any time of the day.

But what are the properties of cherries? What virtues do we find in benefits of cherries?.

What are cherries?

They become, almost with total probability, one of the fruits whose external appearance constitutes one of the most popular, as well as being easily distinguishable. They consist basically of the fleshy fruits of some trees belonging to the Rosaceae family, which we find in temperate zones, and known scientifically with the name ofPrunus avium: the cherry tree.

They are fruits of season, being usual to find them especially during the months of summer, as it happens with other fruits of summer season as it is the case of the melon or the watermelon.

In addition, they stand out for being highly appreciated for their sweet taste, their external appearance and their delicate refreshing effect.

Nutritional values ​​of cherries

From a nutritional point of view, cherries stand out mainly for their high water content, as it happens in fact with most seasonal fruits that we find especially during the summer months.

In fact, it is estimated that around 85% of its content is water. Further, noted for its low fat content and therefore in calories, so that 100 grams of cherries contribute only 60 calories.

On the other hand, they also provide carbohydrates and proteins of vegetable origin, as well as vitamins (especially vitamin C and group B), minerals (such as magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and calcium) and natural antioxidants.

Specifically, 100 grams of cherries provide:

  • Energy: 60 kcal
  • Water: 82 g
  • Carbohydrates: 16 g (of which sugars 12.82 g)
  • Proteins: 1.06 g
  • Vitamins:vitamin A (64 IU), vitamin C (7 mg), B3 (0.15 mg) B5 (0.19 mg), B9 (4 mcg), vitamin E (0.07 mg) and vitamin K1 (2.1 mcg).
  • Minerals:calcium (13 mg), iron (0.36 mg), magnesium (11 mg), phosphorus (21 mg), potassium (222 mg).

Interesting benefits of cherries

Antioxidant qualities

The cherries stand out for their high contribution in natural antioxidants. Particularly, its contribution in anthocyanins, some components that we find not only in cherries but also in other fruits (such as grapes).

These natural antioxidants help reduce the negative action of free radicals, preventing the premature aging of our cells. In addition, they protect us against cancer (especially in the liver, pancreas and prostate) and our blood vessels.

Help reduce cholesterol and triglycerides

In case of high cholesterolDid you know that cherries are especially useful for reducing high levels of fats in the blood? Therefore, they are not only adequate in case of high cholesterol, but also in case of having high triglycerides.

Therefore, its consumption is very interesting to help us also to prevent cardiovascular diseases.

Useful in case of hypertension

Did you know that cherries have a high amount of potassium? In fact, 100 grams of cherries provide 222 mg of potassium. This mineral is very useful in case of arterial hypertension, helping in a positive way when reducing blood pressure if it is elevated.

Allies of our skin

Not only because of its high water content - which helps hydrate our bodies - but also because of its contribution to natural antioxidants, cherries are very useful for the health of our skin.

In fact, they help us to enjoy a much more hydrated and therefore more healthy skin, being useful to delay the natural aging of the skin.

Properties of cherries, in summary

The cherries stand out in the first place for being depurative, energetic and disinfectants, at the same time that they help in cases of constipation to be a little laxative.

It is also a fruit that regenerates organic tissues, being also recommended in cases of arteriosclerosis, obesity, arthritis, constipation, gastric disorders and rheumatism.

It is advisable for both children and the elderly, and can be taken by diabetics as long as the doctor so indicates.

But not only does it have internal properties for the organism, it can also be used to enjoy the natural beauty, since crushed on the face favor the skin. This article is published for informational purposes only. You can not and should not replace the consultation with a Nutritionist. We advise you to consult your trusted Nutritionist.

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