13.7 g · 5% DV target
A succulent stone fruit with a firm, glossy skin and a balance of natural sugars and acidity, cherries are among the most concentrated sources of protective plant pigments in the human diet.
Cherries are nutrient-dense fruits that provide significant amounts of vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and beneficial gut bacteria .16
Both sweet and tart cherry varieties contain high concentrations of anthocyanins (pigments with antioxidant properties) and phenolic acids, which are well-established for their role in reducing oxidative stress and markers of inflammation .147
Consuming cherries may help manage cardiovascular risk factors by improving blood pressure and blood lipid profiles, though some studies suggesting these benefits used high doses of 45 to 270 cherries per day .14
Early research suggests that cherries may improve sleep quality and duration, potentially due to their content of serotonin (a molecule involved in mood and sleep regulation) and other bioactive compounds .7
Petal shape shows the nine FoodCompass domains, including nutrient density, processing, satiety, fats, and phytochemicals.
13.7 g · 5% DV target
12.5 g · 25% DV target
Keep stems attached and wash only immediately before eating to prevent spoilage.
Perennial tree crops generally have lower carbon footprints than annual crops, though water usage can be high in certain regions.
The world record for the longest cherry pit spit is over 28 meters, a distance achieved at an annual competition in Michigan, USA.