Natural Relaxants
Cherries, especially the more tart varieties, contain melatonin, the hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and has a powerful calming effect on the nervous system. It also improves the quality and duration of sleep, reducing the time it takes to fall asleep and prolonging the deepest, most restorative phase.
And if the change of season makes us a little more tired or nervous, cherries are the perfect snack: the presence of manganese, calcium, and zinc supports the nervous system and has a relaxing effect; this is also thanks to tryptophan, an amino acid precursor to serotonin, and other phytonutrients that, acting synergistically, promote relaxation.
So, there’s nothing better than a small bowl of fresh cherries after dinner or an evening snack topped with plain Greek yogurt, a drizzle of honey, a thin layer of hazelnut spread, or a handful of dark chocolate chips.
Contraindications
Except for those with allergies, there are no particular contraindications to consuming cherries. However, there are some groups of people who simply need to be careful about the quantities and frequency of consumption: these fruits, rich in sorbitol and polyols, fermentable sugars, can cause problems for those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome or abdominal bloating.
Despite their low glycemic index and moderate calorie content, cherries, like any other fruit, contain simple sugars. Everyone can include them in their diet, even diabetics or those suffering from insulin resistance, but always in the right context and in the right quantities. The amount varies from person to person.
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