Cherry Juice: An Alternative Remedy for Arthritis

Cherry juice, a popular folk remedy for arthritis, has caught the attention of scientists for its potential anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, researchers have found that anthocyanins—a type of antioxidant found in cherries—may ease arthritis symptoms for some patients.

This research holds great promise for those suffering from arthritis. However, experts warn that more research is needed. It’s important to speak with a doctor before making any changes to your treatment plan.

Cherries May Help Gout and Osteoarthritis Patients

• Gout is a type of arthritis that affects more than 8 million Americans. The symptoms of gout, which include severe pain and swelling, are caused by crystallization of uric acid in the joints. There is no cure for gout. The Arthritis Foundation encourages patients to manage their symptoms with medication and lifestyle strategies.

  Researchers from Boston University Medical Centre believe that eating more cherries could be one of those strategies. They found that patients who ate regular servings of cherries were 35 percent less likely to suffer gout flares. Taking cherry extract had similar results. When patients combined their cherry intake with allopurinol, a uric acid-reducing drug, they were 75 percent less likely to experience flares.

  It’s possible that cherries help to reduce the build-up of uric acid crystals. Researchers from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) found that women had lower blood levels of urate—the precursor to uric acid—after eating 45 Bing cherries for breakfast.

  Cherries may also help to relieve osteoarthritis. A study published by the American College of Rheumatology found that patients with osteoarthritis felt less pain and stiffness after drinking cherry juice daily for six weeks.

Add Cherries to Your Diet

• Do you want to give the potential health perks of cherries a try? One or two servings a day may be all it takes. You can start by drinking cherry juice with breakfast, lunch, or dinner. You can also:

  • Blend cherries into homemade fruit smoothies or popsicles
  • Sprinkle pitted cherries over bowls of cold cereal, granola, or oatmeal
  • Substitute cherries for blueberries in your favourite baked good recipes
  • Add dried cherries to salad or blend fresh cherries into salad dressing

  According to the USDA’s MyPlate food guide, one serving of cherries is equal to one cup of cherry juice. You can also enjoy a serving by eating a half cup of dried cherries or a full cup of fresh cherries.