Cherries are one of the best fruit source of antioxidants, which help prevent many diseases associated  with  ageing. They contain  slightly lower amount of vitamins and minerals than  other stone fruits, but they are rich in several plant compounds that have definite health benefits: they rank highly in the 12th place on the ORAC scale of antioxidant capacity in fruits. The chemicals  they contain include quercetin:  a flavonoid that has anti-cancer and heart protecting qualities;  and cyanindan, which is anti- inflammatory that minimizes symptoms of arthritis and gout.

Cherries contain soluble fibre that controls ‘bad’ cholesterol levels while the fruit is a good source of vitamin C and carotene

When buying cherries, choose red or black,  rather then  yellow cherries and store them in the refrigerator to preserve their vitamin C.

Fresh cherries contain higher levels of antioxidants, so are best eaten raw.

80 g of cherries contains

• 50 Kcalories
• 0.8 g protein
• 13 g  carbohydrate
• 1.7g fibre
• 5.6 mg vitamin C
• 178 mg potassium
• 68 mcg Lutein/Zeaxanthin