Last Updated on June 2, 2023 by Lauren Beck
Tart cherry juice, a delightful and nutrient-rich beverage, offers a multitude of health benefits.
Packed with fiber, vitamins A and C, potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants, it safeguards your cells.
After opening, tart cherry juice gradually loses its flavor and nutrients, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Why Do We Keep Our Tart Cherry Concentrate Chilled?
There are many reasons to keep your tart cherry concentrate chilled. The high acidity level of the cherries helps preserve the fruit’s vitamins and antioxidants.
Chilling also slows down the process of oxidation, which can cause the juice to lose its color and nutrients.
Another reason to keep your concentrate chilled is that the flavor of the cherries will be more intense when they are cold.
When you drink tart cherry juice that has been stored in the fridge, you will taste the freshness of the fruit more than if it was stored at room temperature.
Does Tart Cherry Juice Expire?
Tart cherry juice does not technically expire, but it will start to lose its flavor and nutrients after about a year.
Once opened, the juice should be consumed within a few weeks for the best quality.
Can I Drink Expired Tart Cherry Juice?
While you can technically drink expired tart cherry juice, it is not recommended.
The flavor of the juice will be less intense and the nutrients will have begun to degrade.
If you drink expired juice, check the expiration date on the bottle to ensure that it has not been more than a year since it was opened.
How Long Can You Keep Cherry Juice?
Cherry juice can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks after opening.
However, for the best flavor and quality, consuming the juice within a few days of opening is best.
Is Tart Cherry Juice Good for You?
Tart cherry juice is packed with nutrients and antioxidants that can have many health benefits.
Some of these benefits include reduced inflammation, improved sleep quality, and reduced pain from arthritis.
7 Health Benefits of Tart Cherry Juice
1. May Help Reduce Inflammation
Tart cherry juice contains anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation.
Studies have shown that tart cherry juice can help to reduce inflammation in people with arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
2. May Improve Sleep Quality
Tart cherry juice is a natural source of melatonin [1], a hormone that helps to regulate sleep.
Several studies have shown that tart cherry juice can help to improve sleep quality in people with insomnia.
3. May Reduce Pain from Arthritis
Tart cherry juice has been shown to reduce pain and inflammation in people with arthritis.
One study found that drinking tart cherry juice for eight weeks reduced pain and improved the quality of life in people with osteoarthritis.
4. May Boost Brain Health
Tart cherry juice contains compounds that can help to protect brain cells from damage.
One study found that drinking tart cherry juice improved memory and cognitive function in older adults.
5. May Help Lower Blood Pressure
Tart cherry juice has been shown to help lower blood pressure in people with hypertension.
One study found that drinking tart cherry juice for four weeks lowered systolic blood pressure by an average of 5 mmHg.
6. May Aid in Weight Loss
Tart cherry juice can help to boost metabolism and aid in weight loss.
One study found that drinking tart cherry juice helped people lose weight and body fat more than those who did not drink it.
7. May Help Lower Cholesterol
Tart cherry juice has been shown to help lower cholesterol levels.
One study found that drinking tart cherry juice for eight weeks lowered LDL cholesterol by an average of 13%.
Is Tart Cherry Juice Going to Make Me Sleepy?
Tart cherry juice contains melatonin, a hormone that helps to regulate sleep. While tart cherry juice can help improve sleep quality, it will not likely make you sleepy during the day.
If you are concerned about how tart cherry juice will affect your energy levels, it is best to drink it in the evening or at night.
Who Should Not Drink Tart Cherry Juice?
Tart cherry juice is generally safe for most people. However, there are a few groups of people who should not drink it.
- Pregnant women: Tart cherry juice contains compounds that can cross the placenta and may affect fetal development.
- People with kidney stones: Tart cherry juice contains oxalates, which can increase the risk of kidney stones.
- People with diabetes: Tart cherry juice can cause a spike in blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, monitoring your blood sugar levels closely when you drink tart cherry juice is important.
If you are unsure whether or not tart cherry juice is right for you, it is best to speak to a healthcare provider before drinking it.
Is It Ok to Drink Tart Cherry Juice Every Night?
Drinking tart cherry juice every night can have health benefits, but moderation is key.
It’s antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties may promote sleep quality and reduce muscle soreness.
However, excessive consumption can cause discomfort and increased sugar intake. Consult a healthcare professional to determine the right amount for you.
Conclusion
When it comes to savoring the tangy goodness of tart cherry juice, proper storage can extend its lifespan up to two weeks after opening.
This nutrient-dense beverage, bursting with antioxidants, offers a range of health benefits. Its virtues are numerous, from reducing inflammation to enhancing sleep quality and promoting brain health.
However, certain individuals, like expectant mothers and those with diabetes, should exercise caution and avoid consuming tart cherry juice.
If you’re uncertain about its suitability for your unique circumstances, it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional before raising your glass.
Reference:
- https://www.webmd.com/diet/tart-cherry-juice-good-for-you
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