More Superfood Powers of Sweet Cherries
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One cup of sweet cherries contains 3 grams of dietary fiber. It is recommended that adults consume between 20 and 30 grams of fiber each day (depending on age, gender and other stats). Research suggests that a high-fiber diet can prevent constipation, lower the risk for developing digestive disorders, lower cholesterol, control blood sugar and aid in weight loss.
That same one-cup serving of cherries also has 16 percent of the recommended daily dose of vitamin C, a water-soluble vitamin that is essential in keeping the body functioning normally and a driver in maintaining a healthy immune system.
Cherries are also a good source of the nutrient potassium, with approximately 260 milligrams in a one-cup serving. Potassium is a main electrolyte that keeps the body functioning properly, and plays an important role in muscle, heart, kidney and nerve cell functions. It also works with another electrolyte, sodium, to balance water levels throughout the body.
Finally, cherries contain boron, a mineral that helps maintain calcium balance and promotes bone health. Some research suggests that boron may play a role in preventing osteoporosis, a disease in which bones become fragile and more likely to break. The level of boron needed in the diet is not known, but many nutritionists suggest consuming between 3 and 5 milligrams of boron each day. In addition to sweet cherries, boron is found in many other common fruits, leafy vegetables and legumes.
Get your nutrition fill throughout the summer months with a handful of Stemilt sweet cherries. Read more about cherry nutrition on our blog, The Stem.