Cherries and cherry juice

When it comes to getting a good night’s sleep, the struggle is real. With the stress of day-to-day life that’s fueled by caffeine and powered by devices that glow with a light that interferes with natural sleep patterns, it’s no wonder that people are sleeping less than they used to.

Total Shares 0
Cherries and cherry juice

In fact, according to the National Sleep Foundation, in 1998, 13% of Americans got less than 6 hours of sleep on average. But by 2009, that number jumped to 20% and the trend shows no sign of reversing.

Fortunately, there’s a common and delicious fruit that can help you get your zzz’s: the cherry.

How Cherries Help You Sleep Better

Many cherry varieties contain melatonin and increase the availability of tryptophan, an essential amino acid which is a key ingredient in making serotonin: a brain chemical that promotes feelings of calm, relaxation, and sleepiness. That’s why cherries help you fall asleep and stay asleep.

In a double-blind pilot study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food, a group of researchers from the Sleep & Neurophysiology Research Laboratory at the University of Rochester Medical Center found that fresh tart cherry juice, consumed twice daily, reduced insomnia in elderly participants. They also found that drinking cherry juice helped participants fall asleep 17 minutes earlier than usual!

It’s not just cherry juice that helps. Another study by a group of Spanish researchers found that when middle-aged and elderly participants ate about a cup of cherries at lunch and dinner for three consecutive days, they were able to sleep longer with fewer awakenings.

Slow, Mindful Eating Helps, Too

While it’s a myth that you shouldn’t eat after 6 p.m., you shouldn’t overdo it either. Stuffing yourself right before bed could leave you lying awake with heartburn or an uncomfortably full belly. Instead, have something small and light before you call it a day, and one way to ensure you take it slow is to eat – you guessed it – cherries! Why? Because you simply CAN’T eat them fast. You need to take your time to carefully eat the fruit around the pit, and this gives your body the time it needs to recognize that it’s satiated.

What Does Sleep Have to Do with Weight Loss?

Sleep is more than just time spent not eating. A study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that for those trying to lose weight, cutting sleep short reduced fat loss by 55%! (Zolpidem) There are several explanations for why lack of sleep hurts your weight-loss efforts. With less than 7-8 hours of sleep, your body:

  • Produces less Leptin-the hormone which helps you to feel full and satiated
  • Becomes more resistant to Insulin, which causes you to gain weight

When you put it all together, by burning the midnight oil, you end up feeling extra hungry. A small snack just won’t cut it, so you end up overeating. And then your body can’t handle the blood sugar boost, so it all just turns to fat, which your body then struggles to burn.

The solution is simple: eat cherries and get more sleep.

Total Shares 0

Eat your cherries – but stop eating these 5 foods!

Sources

  1. National Sleep Foundation. One-Third of Americans Lose Sleep Over Economy 2009 March 2. Reviewed 2016 May 22.
  2. Cherry Marketing Institute. Study: Tart Cherry Juice Increases Sleep Time In Adults With Insomnia. Apr 28, 2014. Reviewed 2016 May 22.
  3. Pigeon, Wilfred R., et al. Effects of a tart cherry juice beverage on the sleep of older adults with insomnia: a pilot study.” Journal of medicinal food 13.3 (2010): 579-583.
  4. Garrido, María, et al. “Jerte Valley cherry-enriched diets improve nocturnal rest and increase 6-sulfatoxymelatonin and total antioxidant capacity in the urine of middle-aged and elderly humans.” The Journals of Gerontology Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences 65.9 (2010): 909-914.
  5. Nedeltcheva, Arlet V., et al. “Insufficient sleep undermines dietary efforts to reduce adiposity.” Annals of internal medicine 153.7 (2010): 435-441


Comments 92

    • Ossie-Sharon

      Hi, Dadivitan. The information below may help. Note that purines are what turn into uric acid in the body.

      The following foods are low in purine.
      Eggs, nuts, and peanut butter
      Low-fat and fat free cheese and ice cream
      Skim or 1% milk
      Soup made without meat extract or broth
      Vegetables that are not on the medium-purine list below
      All fruit and fruit juices
      Bread, pasta, rice, cake, cornbread, and popcorn
      Water, soda, tea, coffee, and cocoa
      Sugar, sweets, and gelatin
      Fat and oil

      What foods should I limit?
      Medium-purine foods:
      Meats: Limit the following to 4 to 6 ounces each day.
      Meat and poultry
      Crab, lobster, oysters, and shrimp
      Vegetables: Limit the following vegetables to ½ cup each day.
      Asparagus
      Cauliflower
      Spinach
      Mushrooms
      Green peas
      Beans, peas, and lentils (limit to 1 cup each day)
      Oats and oatmeal (limit to ⅔ cup uncooked each day)
      Wheat germ and bran (limit to ¼ cup each day)
      High-purine foods: Limit or avoid foods high in purine.
      Anchovies, sardines, scallops, and mussels
      Tuna, codfish, herring, and haddock
      Wild game meats, like goose and duck
      Organ meats, such as brains, heart, kidney, liver, and sweetbreads
      Gravies and sauces made with meat
      Yeast extracts taken in the form of a supplement

    • Ossie-Sharon

      Hi, jjdifani, and welcome! We don’t work with calories in this program, but rather with meeting your nutritional needs. At the ends of all Trim Down Club recipes (and some of the Clubmember recipes) you will see “Exchanges per Serving” – exchanges translate to the following approximate values:
      1 carbohydrate exchange = 15 grams of carbohydrates + up to 3 grams of protein
      1 protein exchange = 7 grams of protein + up to 5 grams of fat
      1 fat exchange = 5 grams of fat
      1 fruit exchange = 15 grams of carbohydrates
      1 vegetable exchange = 5 grams of carbohydrates + up to 2 grams of protein
      1 sweet exchange = up to 15 grams of carbohydrates + up to 5 grams of fat
      1 free exchange = up to 5 grams of carbohydrates or up to 2 grams of protein or fat

    • patch2600

      Hello , I just joined 3days ago excited about the program and can’t wait to follow up with the menus. Love the infro just need to get comfortable with all that the program offers. Hanging in for the best results.

  4. Limrie228

    Hi OssieSharon,

    I’ve just joined and I’m very excited about learning all about healthy food combinations .
    I suffer from Multiple Sclerosis & I’m carrying 2-3 stone extra weight ??‍♀️ I’ve no idea how that happened, except I used a gym which enabled weight maintenance, so when my health goes down hill the gym usage decreases. . I am turning 46 next birthday so I can be a slim 46 year old forever more is why I’m saying NO to yo-yo dieting never again . And Hello to a trimmer way of Living .
    ?

    • Ossie-Sharon

      Hi, Limrie, and welcome! You have definitely come to the right place. Our program was designed for people just like you, and we are happy to help however we can. In addition to the Menu Planner menu-building application, we have lots of articles in our “Tips and Tricks” area about superfoods that yield antioxidants and healthy fats that have been found to be supportive in managing MS.
      We have exercise ideas for when you’re having off days, so that you don’t lose ground – some of these are in our “8-Week Plan” (link on the home page) – scroll down to the ends of the pages for Weeks 1, 3, 5, and 7. In addition, just walking in place in front of the TV or doing stretches for 5 minutes a few times a day can preserve valuable muscle and protect motor coordination. Please let use know if you have any questions or concerns. Best of luck! 🙂

  7. HealthyLinda

    I’m 76 years old – looking to become 76 years young. I think I’m about 30 lbs. over what I should be for my 5’1″ height (I’ve lost 2 inches over the years). I’m not into exercise but since I’ve retired, I’m not doing much at all and don’t have a lot of energy, as a result. So, I’m going to try this plan and see what happens.

    • Ossie-Sharon

      Hi, mzzpat. The research studies on cherries used the concentrated juice. If you have 1 cup (240 ml) of unsweetened pure juice, plus a source of protein (such as nuts) before bed, that may help.
      You can see how many major nutrients you need by clicking on “Exchange mode” in the toolbar above your menu. The general nutritional values of each food group represented are as follows:
      1 carb exchange = 15 grams of carbohydrates + up to 3 grams of protein
      1 protein exchange = 7 grams of protein + up to 5 grams of fat
      1 fat exchange = 5 grams of fat
      1 fruit exchange = 15 grams of carbohydrates
      1 vegetable exchange = 5 grams of carbohydrates + up to 2 grams of protein
      1 sweet exchange = up to 15 grams of carbohydrates + up to 5 grams of fat
      1 free exchange = up to 5 grams of carbohydrates or up to 2 grams of protein or fat

  10. seangell@btinternet.com

    Hi all, I am 62 and have fibromyalgia for which I take many pills. I am going to start this plan this week. One question is about bread. I thought 100% wholemeal bread would be processed! Are we really allowed to eat it? It really looks an encouraging eating plan. Here I go……….

    • Ossie-Sharon

      Hi, Sean. There are some 100% wholemeal breads that are processed, and some that are not. If you get it from a bakery, or buy the sprouted type, it will be much less processed. Those types of breads are “allowed,” but of course in measured amounts – and we encourage you to pay attention to the way you feel when you eat it. If it doesn’t agree with you, then try leaving it out and seeing if it helps.

  11. Aberaeron

    Hi there.
    Started this eating programme yesterday. There is a lot of food on this eating plan. I could not eat everything yesterday on the menu as full. I have started the menopause and have retired recently(hence the wait gain) . I didnt sleep very well last night. Have had the reccommended breakfast today but could not fit in the snack this morning. I must say Im not ready for lunch yet! Is everything on the menu meant to be eaten?

    • Ossie-Sharon

      Hi, Aberaeron, and welcome 🙂 Everything on the menu is meant to be eaten, but it’s great that you’re in tune with your fullness signals (and we wouldn’t want you to fight that). Since you are menopausal, it is best if you cut back on starchy carbohydrate foods, and instead favor protein and produce. If that doesn’t suit you, please do repost here, and I would be happy to work with you.

  12. e.watson20

    Hi, I have Diabetes type 2 (not in control at the moment )but also have an ileostomy, and am not overly confident with computers…. can anyone out there give me any pointers ! I am desperate to lose weight…. I need a friend!

  13. suepip12

    Hello, just joined and am from England. Am a bit confused by the U.s. measurements. Could you tell me what a ‘cup ‘equivalent is in British measurement weight (in particular, oatmeal, vegetable /potato) i.e I measure in either pounds/ounces or kilogrammes.

    Thanks

    • Ossie-Sharon

      Hi, suepip, and welcome. A cup is a volume measurement equal to 240 ml. Because vegetables vary in their weights, that may be the easiest route. In general, though, a cup of potato is about 200 grams, cooked oatmeal 240 grams.

  14. bethlehem

    Hi , I’ve just joined and hope that I shall have a reasonable level of success . I suffer from several medical conditions and wonder if some of my medication is unhelpful in weight loss. My knee replacements , fallen arches and arthritis make exercise difficult . However , I’m not going to be unduly off- put and want to do whatever is possible to shed some weight and shape up . Have you any initial advice to give me about shedding the pounds with these particular problems ? Thank you … I am really looking forward to some success.

    • Ossie-Sharon

      Hi, Sally, and welcome! You can find that guidance in our “Main Program Guide,” and in th Menu Planner. In the foods lists, the foods in the lighter blues are the healthiest, and the application automatically combines carbohydrates with proteins (at a ratio of about 3 grams of carbohydrates to 1 gram each of protein and fat).

    • reenie4nier

      Also have diverticula bowel but if you chew everything very well and break it down with your teeth before swallowing, you will find you can eat nuts. I don’t eat corn because it takes much too long to get it all chewed up.

  29. dcporter01

    Hi Ossie-Sharon – maybe I just missed this info somewhere on the site but my menu doesn’t include what to drink with each meal. There are a lot of options for meals but its interesting that these meals don’t include what to drink. I hate drinking water so I can’t imagine a glass of water with each meal x 6. What are your suggestions for drinks/juices to drink with these meals (breakfast, snack1, lunch, snack2, dinner, snack3)??

    Thanks!

  32. savygrl

    Congratulations to everyone making the efforts to improve their health! Everything presented in this program is phenomenal and spot on! To each and everyone of you….KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK, and embrace the “happy” you feel inside by taking care of your body.

    • CarlbBurgason

      I just joined also and have great hopes of helping my diabetes. I’m 86 and eat mostly fruit (limited) and vegetables. My doctor wants me to drink 10 – 12 8 oz. glasses of water per day, not including juice or coffee. When the weather is hot, it’s quite easy, but that’s a lot of water!

  34. Cathyazevedo55

    Hi Ossie, Thanks for the quick response. I have a lot (some would say too much) physical activity in my life; its got to be the food I’m eating that’s keeping this very stubborn 20 extra pounds on me. I try not to eat a lot of meat. Please give some examples of OK protein substitutes that you would recommend (besides eggs of course) I’ve had an egg every morning this week for breakfast and can’t look another one in the eye.
    PS Happy 4th of July from the USA!

    • Ossie-Sharon

      Hi, Cathy. I’m glad to read that you’re physically active. Protein sources other than eggs associated with healthy weight loss in scientific studies include nuts and dairy products (both good in the morning), as well as fish high in omega-3 fatty acids (such as salmon).

  36. Cathyazevedo55

    I am an infant in this program (one week) but am so impressed by your steering people toward healthy chooses in all the articles, menus and recipes I’ve read so far. I have spent my whole life working in an organic fruit stand/health food industry and have learned more then I could possibly use in one lifetime. I so appreciate your using organically grown, whole foods and healthy alternatives. As the days go by I am hoping to do better on the menu meal planner. Are there any articles on the way this plan works so that when something spontaneous comes up for a meal I can make healthy choices without feeling like I’ve failed my given menu meal plan? Because so far I do pretty good with breakfast and then someone in my family or a friend comes over and I’m off and running with them at meal time and I can’t seem to get a handle on what it is I’m supposed to be putting together. I eat very healthy but always have 20 or so extra pounds hanging around that I can’t seem to shed (since menopause) is it OK to talk about such things on this sight. LOL! I LOVE anything sugar and have just recently been pretty successful about up-rooting it out of my diet and that is HUGE. I guess I didn’t want to admit how bad it was and what a handle it had on my diet in the past. Since taking it out (almost altogether) I have stopped gaining but have 20 pounds to go where I was before menopause. This all came as quite a shock since I have never had a problem with my weight before then – ever. In your advertisement you talked about ratios using carbs and proteins in certain combinations; can you explain this a little further? Thank you so much!

    • Ossie-Sharon

      Hi, Cathy. I’m glad to read that you’re off to a good start. Menopause can be a game-changer, but physical activity and increasing the proportion of proteins over carbohydrates (particularly “simple” types). The combinations themselves aren’t complicated – they should just be together. Additionally, it is often best if there aren’t more than 60 grams of carbohydrates at a single setting, which is how we’ve designed the menu patterns. I hope that helps.

  37. cynthiagaretto

    Is my 2th day and I can’t eat that much a day.
    Normally breakfast 1apple
    Lunch. Soup or salad
    Diner. Eggs, sandwich, some pasta or cereal.
    And if I’m hungry later
    A frut or some slices of turky ham or some chess
    I love vegetables and I can’t eat sea food.
    Some help

    • Ossie-Sharon

      Hi, Cynthia, and welcome! How long have you been eating the way you described? is that in response to weight struggles, or is that a life-long habit? I ask because a very small breakfast, especially one lacking in protein, can often set off a reaction in the body (especially in women over 40) that can push weight issues.
      I’m glad you have started using the personal version of the Menu Planner so that you can select the specific foods you like. You can certainly cut back a bit, but be careful not to cut back so much that your needs aren’t met and you risk rebound weight gain. I suggest to move some of the foods that are “too much” to the earlier part of the day, cutting the starchy carbohydrates in half.
      An example using your current Monday menu would include omitting the bread or having only one slice, omitting the crackers, or having just three (by the way, these are the tiny Japanese-type rice crackers or mini-ricecakes), and/or having just 2 ounces of pizza (which is about 1/8 of a 12-inch pizza – or make your own mini-pizza on an english muffin or small-medium tortilla, preferably whole grain).
      Can this work for you?

    • Ossie-Sharon

      Hi, Justine, and welcome. I would suggest to begin with our Quick Start Guide (available in “My Downloads” in the upper right corner), which outlines our basic principles (you can read even more about those in our Program Guide). Then perhaps you could try the Eight-Week Program, which can guide you through getting into the stream of things.

    • Ossie-Sharon

      Hi, Vneumaier. The video discussed artificial or overprocessed versions of popular foods that should be healthy, but have been manipulated into being particularly harmful to your goals. Rather than giving up on them altogether, we encourage better versions in their original, natural forms. Note that the foods discussed in the video are only examples, and many other popular foods have been similarly affected—so it’s good to read labels, be aware of how a food is made, and choose whole foods as much as possible.
      1. Regular “whole wheat” bread – this often also contains refined flours, so it is preferred to select “100% whole” grain products (wheat or other). Even with these products, be sure to read the label and avoid hydrogenated fats or similar ingredients such as mono- and diglycerides.
      2. Regular margarine – this is often made from chemically altered fats that create health risks similar to those people are trying to avoid by eating a plant-based product. If you must use a hardened oil, t is better to choose those based on coconut oil, and otherwise to use healthy liquid oils, such as olive, as much as possible.
      3. Artificial sweeteners – you can read more about this here: https://www.trimdownclub.com/the-best-way-to-sweeten-your-tea-2.
      4. Regular orange juice – If it is in a store, it is likely to have been stripped of what makes it healthy. Even if vitamins etc. have been added back in, it really is not the same. Fresh-squeezed is the way to go.
      5. Conventional and overly processed soy – organic is fine, and minimally processed items such as tofu, yogurt, and milk, as well as fermented items such as tempeh and natto are fine. However, most pre-packaged mock meats tend to be a problem.

Leave a Reply