"Delicious Juice" Protects the Heart... What Is It?

A recent study has shown that "drinking two cups of tart cherry juice daily can reduce the risk of stroke and heart attacks." Researchers from the University of Delaware in the United States explained that cherry juice is rich in healthy plant compounds called polyphenols, which lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and protect against cardiovascular diseases. The research team investigated the effects of cherry juice on 34 men and women aged 65 to 80 years. It was found that cherry juice reduced "bad cholesterol" or LDL (low-density lipoprotein) by 11%. The results, published in the journal Nutrients, showed that individuals who consumed cherry juice were less prone to inflammation and oxidative stress, which cause serious diseases. Lead researcher Xiao Cheng Chai, a nutrition expert at the University of Delaware, stated: "Systolic blood pressure and bad cholesterol among cherry juice consumers decreased, alongside lower levels of certain substances in the blood that indicate inflammation and oxidative stress." She added: "Tart cherry juice can easily be incorporated into the diet without increasing calorie intake or sugar consumption." Chai called for larger and longer follow-up studies to confirm the results. High blood pressure and cholesterol levels are significant contributing factors to serious health issues such as heart attacks, strokes, and cardiovascular diseases.