When you think of cherries, most of us get nostalgic and picture a nice farmhouse, maybe some linens hanging outside to dry, maybe someone with an apron and of course the delectable smell of cherry pie cooling off on a window sill. That’s what I think of anyways. But I think that a lot of us can agree to one point no matter what comes up for you when you think about cherries: they are delicious and nostalgic. It's one of those foods that's associated with romance and all the warm fuzzies you can think of (even with a Latin name of Prunus avium which sounds like some weird zombie illness).
Cherries are in season right now, and I, for one, am excited! Not only can we benefit for their delicious sweet and tart flavour, but it’s a great opportunity for us to support local farmers. Currently, the average meal travels 1,200 km from the farm to plate. But as the distance food travels increases, so does the need for processing and refrigeration to reduce spoilage. When we buy food locally, we are reducing the usage of fossil fuels, which contribute to air pollution and other negative environmental effects. And of course, buying local helps local farmers and businesses to thrive. Your dollar can actually create a healthy food system, reduce your carbon footprint and help support the local economy.
Cherries are not only packed with flavour, but also nutrients as well. To me it was no surprise that they are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, but I was tickled pink (ha ha) to learn that cherries are also a good source of melatonin, a hormone that helps you sleep by helping balance out your circadian rhythm.
Here are the many other benefits that cherries have to offer besides exploding fun into your taste buds.
Melatonin
This handy little hormone helps to control your sleep and wake cycles. Although it is more popular in supplement form, small amounts can be found in food sources like cherries.
Lowers blood pressure
Because cherries are jammed packed with potassium, they naturally help reduce your blood pressure. This necessary mineral is also great for maintaining good kidney function and reducing blood clotting.
Anti-aging
Ok, so there is no fountain of youth that I have ever come across, but there are certain lifestyle changes and foods we can eat to help us age with grace. Cherries are one of these foods; they are fully equipped with antioxidants that neutralize free radicals, which contribute to ailments associated with aging like vision loss, hair loss and wrinkles.
Boosts immune system
These little delectable treats have so many little benefits up their sleeves, like how they help boost your immune system with their vitamin C and also contain antiviral and antifungal properties.
Delicious
Whether you have a preference for tart or sweet, raw or cooked, cherries have you covered. They are delicious any way you have them.
Cherry Popsicles
Ingredients:
• 1 can coconut milk
• 2 1/2 cups pitted cherries
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 3-4 tbsp honey (taste to see if you need more)
• Popsicle molds
Directions:
1. Blend items in a food processor or blender.
2. Pour into popsicle mould.
3. Freeze over night.
4. Eat up!
