Pack with nutrients
Cherries are little stone fruits with a wide range of hues and tastes. There are two types of cherry: tart cherries (Prunus cerasus L.) and sweet cherries (Prunus avium L.). Their hues range from yellow to a deep blackish-red. All types are extremely healthy, and abundant in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. One cup (154 grams) of sweet, raw, pitted cherries provides:
- Calories: 97
- Protein: 2 grams
- Carbs: 25 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Vitamin C: 18% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Potassium: 10% of the DV
- Copper: 5% of the DV
- Manganese: 5% of the DV
These nutrients, notably fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, provide several health benefits. Vitamin C is necessary for the immune system and skin health, whereas potassium is required for muscular contraction, neuron function, blood pressure management, and a variety of other vital biological activities. Cherries are also high in fiber, which supports digestive health by feeding beneficial gut flora and improving bowel regularity. They also include B vitamins, manganese, copper, magnesium, and vitamin K.