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Cherry Smoothies To Combat Arthritis
Cherries have long been used to sooth chronically inflamed joints. In my experience, cherries aren't consistently effective in helping cases of degenerative arthritis, but when used in conjunction with a dairy-free diet, I find that they can significantly reduce joint pain caused by metabolic-type arthritides like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and psoriatic arthropathy.
Cherries are one of nature's best sources of a group of health-enhancing pigments called anthocyanins. Specifically, cherries are abundant in anthocyanocides, which provide powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects in the body. Anthocyanocides are particularly effective in keeping blood uric acid in check, which is why cherries are a viable remedy for people who tend to experience gout.
The entire class of anthocyanin antioxidants seems to offer protection against collegen breakdown, which may explain why regular intake of cherries is often helpful to those who have joint pain caused by rhematoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.
When cherries aren't in season, we like to make cherry smoothies with frozen, pitted cherries that are available at Costco.
To make 3 to 4 cherry smoothies, start with two medium size bananas.
About 1.5 cups of frozen, pitted cherries.
Add about half a cup of frozen strawberries.
And one and a half cups each of your favourite juice and non-dairy milk. For most of our berry and cherry smoothies, we like to use a berry smoothie mix by Bolthouse farms.
If you want extra cherry content, you can always add a teaspoon or two of acerola cherry powder before blending.
Cherry smoothies are best enjoyed right away, as they tend to develop a slight jello-like consistency after a few hours.
Some people tend to experience an overactive GI tract if they eat too many cherries in one sitting, so it's best to start with less than you think you'll need, observe how your body responds, and go from there with subsequent servings.
Whether you're looking to soothe inflamed joints or just share these mouthwatering cherry smoothies with loved ones, I trust that you'll enjoy.
For more on how to use dietary and lifestyle choices to prevent most types of arthritis, please feel free to view:
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Comments
I'd like to add that the
I'd like to add that the black ones are the best - my father has gout in his large toes (both) and black cherry supplements really help with the pain and healing. Whenever it flares up that's what we get.
cherries
I don't belong to Costco since it's an hour away but do they carry organic cherries or organic produce in general?
Thank you for all the wonderful research & recipes you provide.
PS: My husband takes tart cherry supplements for his gout & it's worked now for over a year.
Arthritis cherries.
I found canned tart cherries which I will try as well? I am freezing a cupful to use later.
CHERRIES
Soon after I experienced my first gout opportunity (at 65yo) my wife discovered a web article that suggested 100% pure tart bottled cherry juice. I immediately began an every-morning-regimen of a couple ounces of this elixir. The symptoms were gone within a couple days. I still follow this regimen to prevent gout flare-ups. The only new symptoms appeared when I spent a week in Mexico and couldn't find cherry juice in our town. As soon as we got home I restarted the process ... and no symptoms. I am grateful.
where to find organic cherries
In answer to your question, yes, Costco has organic frozen cherries, peaches, and blueberries. I buy them once a month. Stock up for the month and then the hour drive will be worth it.
Kind of Cherries
I have come to understand tart cherries are best for arthritis. You do not mention whether it makes any difference as to tart or sweet. Could you clear up my confusion on this. Thank you.
In my experience, all common
In my experience, all common varieties of cherries are helpful, but those that have darker skins tend to be most helpful. Tartness doesn't seem to matter as much as density of antioxidants.