The Surprising Benefits of Tart Cherries for Blood Pressure Health

Tart cherries, also known as Montmorency cherries, are a type of sour cherry that is grown primarily in Michigan and Canada. These cherries are rich in antioxidants and have been shown to have a number of health benefits, including the ability to lower blood pressure.

Here at 120/Life, we are big believers in the power of tart cherries. That's why we've included them as one of the key ingredients in our blood pressure-lowering drink.

So, what makes tart cherries such a powerful tool for supporting healthy blood pressure? Let's take a closer look.

Benefits of Tart Cherries

Tart cherries are packed with antioxidants, including anthocyanins, which give the cherries their bright red color. These antioxidants are believed to help lower blood pressure by dilating blood vessels and improving blood flow.

In addition to their antioxidant content, tart cherries also contain other nutrients that may help to support healthy blood pressure, including potassium, fiber, and melatonin.

Potassium is a mineral that helps to regulate blood pressure by counteracting the effects of sodium. A diet high in potassium has been shown to help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke and other cardiovascular events.

Fiber is another nutrient that can help to lower blood pressure. It helps to reduce cholesterol levels and improve blood sugar control, both of which are important for maintaining healthy blood pressure.

Melatonin is a hormone that is produced naturally in the body and helps to regulate sleep. Some studies have shown that melatonin may also help to lower blood pressure, although more research is needed to confirm this.

Tart Cherry and Blood Pressure: The Research

There have been several studies investigating the relationship between tart cherries and blood pressure.

One study, published in the Journal of Nutrition, found that participants who drank tart cherry juice daily for eight weeks had significantly lower systolic blood pressure (the top number in a blood pressure reading) compared to those who drank a placebo.

Another study, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, found that participants who ate tart cherries daily for four weeks had lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number in a blood pressure reading) compared to those who did not consume cherries.

A third study, published in the Journal of Functional Foods, found that participants who consumed a tart cherry powder supplement daily for 12 weeks had significantly lower systolic blood pressure compared to those who received a placebo.

It's worth noting that these studies used different methods of consuming tart cherries (juice, whole fruit, and powder), and more research is needed to determine the optimal way to incorporate tart cherries into the diet for blood pressure-lowering effects.

How to Incorporate Tart Cherries into Your Diet

One of the easiest ways to incorporate tart cherries into your diet is by drinking a tart cherry juice or smoothie. You can also add dried tart cherries to your favorite recipes, such as oatmeal, granola, or yogurt.

At 120/Life, we've made it easy for you to get your daily dose of tart cherries with our blood pressure-lowering drink. Made with a blend of tart cherry juice, other natural ingredients, and a touch of sweetness, our drink is scientifically formulated to help lower blood pressure.  

We hope you found this blog informative and that you learned a little bit more about the potential benefits of tart cherries.. As always, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your diet or health routine.