Heal Thyself

Cherries are good for a whole lot more than just topping off your sundae. Researchers from Oregon Health & Science University have found that people training for a long distance run experienced less muscle pain when drinking tart cherry juice. In the study, subjects drank 10.5 ounces of cherry juice twice a day over the course of one week before, as well as on the day of, a long-distance relay. They reported less muscle pain after the race compared with people who drank a different fruit juice. Cherries may be just as effective as conventional medications when combating post-exercise inflammation. Sports physicians generally prescribe NSAIDS, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, to ease inflammation. However, these drugs can have adverse side effects, such as ulcers. Cherries are rich in anthocyanins, an anti-inflammatory antioxidant that gives the fruit its alluring shade of red.

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The Superfruits:

Some fruits boast exceptional healing and nutritional benefits, and the cherry is among the so-called "superfruits." Blackcurrants, blueberries, and peaches are some of the common superfruits, but if your palette is craving something more exotic, give guarana or açaí a try.

One-Stop Shop:

Besides their anti-inflammatory powers, cherries have been shown to play a part in lowering cholesterol and mediating risk factors associated with heart disease.

The Savvy Sprinter:

When it comes to training for, and recovering after, a marathon, keep a healthy regimen to bypass aches and pains. A popular method of unwinding after a run is known as RICE, which stands for Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation.