If you are tired of achy joints, pain from gout or arthritis then you need to read this article about how tart cherries can help maintain healthy joints.



But if tart cherries are so good in relieving joint pain, why haven't you heard more about them on the radio or read more about them in the new? Good question and here is the answer: You will! However, most of the news getting out about the health benefits of tart cherries has been stomped out by the FDA.

In fact, a few years back the FDA sent warning letters to over 24 cherry companies threatening to shut them down if they continue to tell the public about the scientific research results on tart cherries. These are the same studies conducted by some of the world's leading Universities and research organizations. In addition, some of these studies were even funded by the USDA and promoted by the cherry grower's organization.

Cherries offer a number of amazing health benefits and according to the research contain a number of great naturally occurring antioxidants including Melatonin, Anthocyanins and more. Melatonin helps sleepiness during the night and wakefulness during the day. That is why many say that tart cherries help them enjoy a more restful night sleep. In addition, the research shows the presence of a number of antioxidants and Anthocyanins.

Anthocyanins are the compounds that give fruits their color. If a fruit has a color then it contains Anthocyanins. It is the unique make-up of compounds found in the tart cherry that helps to fight joint pain. According to research, the compounds found in the tart cherry are natural COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitors. In addition to fighting joint pain naturally, some research also shows tart cherry juice drink can help to soothe sore muscles due to physical exercise.

Where to Find Tart Cherries

Tart cherries are available in a variety of different forms. Fresh tart cherries offer a great way to get the natural antioxidant benefits of the cherry, however they are extremely tart. However, fresh tart cherries are very seasonal and are not always available in your local store. However, here are a few suggestions to get the natural benefits of the tart cherry:

o Fresh Tart Cherries: When in season, you can get tart cherries straight from a farm market or the produce section of your local store. Also, a number of tart cherry farms can ship fresh tart cherries directly to your door. Here is a good resource to get fresh tart cherries delivered to your door during a few short weeks in the month of early August: http://www.thejonesbrotherscherryfarm.com

o Frozen Cherries: To get your hands on frozen cherries visit the refrigeration section of your local grocery store. Enjoy a few thawed cherries in your pancakes or muffins.

o Dried Tart Cherries: One source for dried tart cherries, organic dried tart cherries and natural (no-sugar) added dried tart cherries is Traverse Bay Farms http://www.traversebayfarms.com. They will ship dried tart cherries directly to your home or office. The company also offers free shipping on 4 lb quantities of dried cherries.

o Tart Cherry Extract / Tart Cherry Powder (Super Fruit Supplements): One source for tart cherry capsules is from Fruit Advantage http://www.fruitadvantage.com. The company even offers free shipping on tart cherry capsules. These dietary supplements are made from whole cherries and deliver highly concentrated amounts of the fruit in an easy-to-swallow capsule without the sugar.