We’ve been bitten by the cherry bug, and over the next couple of weeks, we’re going to be bringing you a selection of recipes made using Montmorency tart cherries. We’d love to see your creations, so share them with us on Twitter and Facebook, and if you’ve got your own cherry recipes, let us know in the comments.
Why cherries?
Montmorency tart cherries are said to promote sleep, reduce the risk of heart disease and even reduce post-exercise muscle and joint pain. Apparently, it’s the unique package of antioxidants and beneficial phytonutrients and anthocyanins — the pigments that give cherries their bright red colour – that make these scrumptious red fruits the super food they are.
Recent studies showed that cyclists and marathon runners who drank Montmorency tart cherry juice before and after their race experienced less inflammation and oxidative stress and a much faster recovery period than those who drank an alternative. When it comes to improving the recovery period following intense exercise, the findings have been unanimous, both in terms of reducing pain and improving the overall recovery period. In one study, drinking Montmorency tart cherry juice showed an average strength loss over four days of 4% in comparison to the 22% that was seen in those drinking an alternative. In short, we need some of this in our lives!! And based on the findings of these studies, what we need is a 10oz glass of Montmorency tart cherry juice before exercise and an additional glass within 30 mins following is what is recommended, but this seems like a lot to think about right?
Well, it doesn’t have to be. TWC have teamed up with cherry lovers, the CMI, to bring you six quick and easy ways to incorporate cherries into your daily diet … and even we were surprised – it’s so much easier than you think!
