Cherry Juice to Help Arthritis

There are many kinds of arthritis, but they all are defined by inflammation of joints that results in swelling, discomfort and a limited range of movement. Arthritis is most common among elderly people. There are a variety of treatment methods to reduce pain and swelling, although there is no cure. Cherry juice is believed to have properties that can help relieve arthritis.

Cherry Juice

• A study at the University of Vermont, as reported in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, showed that cherry juice helps relieve muscle pain after exercise by strengthening the muscles. It also is considered a pain reliever and may help sufferers of arthritis, particularly gout arthritis. Gout causes a sudden surge of pain when uric acid in the bloodstream crystallizes in the joints. Cherry juice may decrease the levels of uric acid on the blood. A study at the University of California showed up to a 15 percent decrease in uric acid levels in women who ate a serving of cherries. The FDA states that further evidence is needed to prove these claims.

Anthocyanins

• Cherries contain a compound called anthocyanins, which researchers, doctors and scientists believe reduce the level of uric acid and ease arthritis pain. Tart cherries, black cherries and sweet cherries all contain approximately the same amount of anthocyanins per serving, so it doesn't matter which type you eat. Dried cherries also contain anthocyanins. You can eat fresh cherries, dried cherries or whole cherries, or just drink the juice to get anthocyanins. Those who showed a reduction in muscle pain after exercise consumed a mixture of blended tart cherries and apple juice. Try this concoction if you suffer from muscle or joint pain, but remember it is not an arthritis treatment that is backed by the FDA.