Might promote brain health

Oxidative stress is hypothesized to play a role in the development of degenerative brain illnesses such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. Tart cherries and their juice are high in antioxidants and other beneficial plant chemicals, which may protect brain cells. Consuming 16 ounces (480 mL) of tart cherry juice daily increased antioxidant defenses in healthy older men and women, according to one study.

For 12 weeks, older persons with mild-to-moderate dementia were given either 6.5 ounces (200 ml) of tart cherry juice or a placebo. Adults in the cherry juice group improved their verbal fluency, as well as their short- and long-term memory, whereas those in the placebo group did not.