Antioxidants are compounds that deactivate free radicals.
Free Radicals are highly reactive compounds that damage cells, contributing to diseases associated with the ageing process. They are formed naturally in the body, but also through external forces such as chemical pollutants, smoke, radiation and over cooked foods.
Eating an antioxidant rich diet is likely to lower a person’s risk for disease, stimulate and protect the immune system, and may slow the ageing process.
Antioxidants are found in abundance in organic fruits and vegetables, some having much higher levels than others. Montmorency cherries are one of the richest sources of powerful compounds called anthocyanins, it is these flavonoids that give the distinctive deep red colour.
Of 150 different flavonoids found in plants, anthocyanins appear to have the greatest antioxidant activity. Montmorency cherries contain 30 to 40mg in every 100g.
They help ease the pain of gout and arthritis. Gout is a common form of arthritis that causes sudden and extremely painful attacks in the joints of the foot, knee, ankle, hand and wrist, but especially the big toe. It is caused by the excess of uric acid in the bloodstream. An overload of uric acid can cause it to form into microscopic, needle-like crystals in the joints, causing inflammation and intense pain.
Research shows Montmorency cherry juice can lower uric acid. In fact, studies have shown a 36 percent reduction in uric acid levels in the blood just eight hours after drinking the concentrate, plus a 29 percent reduction in an inflammation marker (hsCRP ).
Montmorency cherries can also help insomnia, by increasing Melatonin levels. Melatonin is a natural compound produced in the brain’s pineal gland and controls the body’s sleep cycles and circadian rhythms.
It is suggested to drink 30ml of the concentrate mixed in a little water an hour before bed.
For further information contact Susan in Au Naturel, Irishtown, Athlone. 090 6487993
