The Cherry Diet: Admittedly Enjoyable But Is It Just Another Diet Fad?
Going on a diet doesn't only have to be to lose weight; you can start one for better well-being (physically and mentally), to lower risks, or cope with diseases like cancer, diabetes, etc. The cherry diet belongs in this "non-weight loss" diet category. But, while it seems like a healthy option, is it worth a trial? Or is it just another diet fad making the rounds online? These and many more questions will be answered below.
Much like the name connotes, the cherry diet is all about consuming more cherries than you usually do. You are required to eat cherries, either fresh off the vine or blended into juices (you can get creative with this!)
There isn't a set amount of cherries or cherry juice you need to consume, but the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2010 says that you should eat two cups of fruit or 100 percent fruit juice when eating 2,000 to 2,600 calories daily, and one cup of fruit or juice when following a 1,200-calorie weight loss plan.
Although this diet isn't directed at losing weight, it can prove useful if you're seeking to do so; all you'd have to do is lower your calorie intake while strictly keeping to the cherry diet.
To answer the pressing question of the cherry diet's authenticity, yes, the cherry diet is very useful. Outlined below are some of its most important benefits to human health:
1. Cherries are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants
Like the typical fruit, cherries are a potent source of vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. Its vibrant red color comes from antioxidants called anthocyanins, which help rejuvenate cells and promote your general wellbeing.
2. Cherries lower your risk of developing diseases
Many scientific studies have similarly reported that cherries also help reduce your chances of contracting diseases commonly known to arise with aging like heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer's disease.
3. Cherries alleviates symptoms of arthritis
Scientists have also proven that consuming cherries helps lower gout and arthritis symptoms, like pain, stiffness, etc. One study reports that drinking 16 ounces of tart cherry juice daily helped to reduce osteoarthritis symptoms.
Thus, the conclusion that the cherry diet can help lower your chances of developing gout or arthritis.
4. Cherries help you sleep better
Keeping to the cherry diet will increase the quality of your sleep. Not only will it rid you of insomnia, but it will also improve your sleep duration and, overall, quality.
This is because cherries are a rich source of melatonin, which is vital for sleep.
Who would have thought that this tasty fruit had so many health benefits, right!?
Warning:
- Never substitute cherries for your meal plan. That is, while keeping to the cherry diet, you should consume regular meals as you usually would or wouldn't depending on your preferences. This is because cherries are not a replacement for other foods, and eating only them can put you at risk of developing nutritional deficiencies.
- Also, if you are allergic to cherries, this diet is not for you!
Conclusively, the cherry diet is a definite recommendation for everyone. However, the key to getting the best results is ensuring that the diet is combined with a healthy meal plan – or weight-loss program if you'd like!
