Can’t Sleep? Try Some Cherry Pie!
I struggle with insomnia at times and I have to tell you that there is more to the lowly cherry than meets the eye. Get this:
A recent study and found that tart cherries contain melatonin — a hormone that has been found to slow the aging process, and fight insomnia and jet lag. Cherries are also being studied as a potential treatment for cancer, depression and other problems.
The secret lies in the cherry’s skin and pigmentation. This is where antioxidants called anthocyanins exist. A 1999 study found that the antioxidants in tart black cherries are greater than Vitamin E.
When the body doesn’t produce enough Melatonin the results may be insomnia. However, before reaching for a medication or contacting a doctor for a prescription drug, insomnia suffers need to take a closer look at tart cherries.
As melatonin levels in the blood rise, the body begins to feel sleepy. As these levels decline, the body begins to feel re-energized. Melatonin helps the body regulate the body’s rhythmic sleep patterns.
You have three options for consuming tart cherries:
o Fresh Tart Cherries – (13.5 (ng) of Melatonin per gram)
o Tart cherry juice concentrate – (100 ng of Melatonin per gram)
o Tart cherry powder – (137+ ng per gram)
Me? Give me a bowlful of fresh cherries and I am HAPPY!
Source: Dr. Rieter, Melatonin Research
