Cherry Juice for Athletes

Cherry, the red-colored, round, fleshy fruit, is obtained from the plants of the genus Prunus. This fruit is a very rich source of a variety of minerals and vitamins, such as iron, magnesium, calcium, niacin, riboflavin and thiamine.

Cherries are known to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They are also believed to protect against a variety of diseases and health conditions, like cancer, diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, arthritis, gout, cataracts and varicose veins.

Cherry juice, which is made from fresh cherries, possesses the same qualities and thus, has similar benefits for the body. In fact, in the past, researches have shown that it is especially beneficial for those who undertake heavy physical activities, like gym goers and athletes.

Wear and tear of muscles are a part of an athlete's day-to-day life. Inflammation and pain in the muscles are very commonly experienced by them, as they have to train for long hours, almost everyday. However, in order to give their best to their chosen sport, they need to be in the top of their health condition.

So they need to make sure that any discomfort, pain or swelling that occurs during training, is taken care of immediately. To tackle such issues, many athletes rely on the non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS).

These drugs do provide relief, but they can produce a number of side effects in the body. That's why, it is always a better option to look for a natural alternative to bring down the inflammation and pain, resulting from sports injury.

Researches have shown that tart cherry juice has the same advantages as non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) and that too, minus any side effects. This is due to the presence of antioxidant compounds in cherries, known as anthocyanins, which also give them their red color.

Whether tart cherries are taken raw or in the form of a juice, they provide the same benefits i.e. reduce inflammation and pain. The high amount of antioxidants found in cherry juice provides protection against free radicals, thus keeping the cells of the body healthy and reducing the incidences of many diseases.

To enjoy the numerous benefits, one can easily make it at home itself. To make a highly nutritive and tasty juice, be careful when purchasing the cherries. The cherries should be firm, well rounded and dark in color. Start with removing the stems from the cherries. Next, put them in a bowl and clean them thoroughly with water.

Once the cherries are clean, put them in a blender. Add some water to the cherries. You may add a crushed vitamin C tablet to the blender, if you want the juice to retain the natural cherry color. Wait till the cherries are fully blended and liquidized.

In the end, separate the pits from the juice, by passing it through a strainer. And voile! You have the nutritive, delicious juice, ready to be savored! If you want to make a smoothie, instead of water, add low fat yogurt and follow the same procedure.

As can be seen, cherry juice is very beneficial and the best part is that it can be made easily and without any hassle. The only drawback is that it contains sorbitol.

If a person suffers from irritable bowel syndrome, the presence of sorbitol in cherry juice, can further deteriorate his health condition. Leaving this aside, it is extremely beneficial, as it is an all natural product, which aids in speedy recovery of muscles. It is an excellent post workout drink, which can make anyone, whether an athlete or a gym goer, feel comfortable, pain free and energetic!