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The Potential Benefits of Tart Cherry Juice for Peripheral Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy refers to damage to the peripheral nervous system, which transmits information between the central nervous system and the rest of the body. This condition can result in numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness in the hands and feet. Peripheral neuropathy has a variety of potential causes, including diabetes, injury, infection, autoimmune diseases, nutritional deficiencies, alcoholism, and more. There is no known cure for peripheral neuropathy, but managing symptoms is important for maintaining quality of life. Some research indicates that tart cherry juice may offer certain benefits for peripheral neuropathy patients when incorporated into an overall neuropathy treatment plan.

What the Science Says on Tart Cherries and Neuropathy

Tart cherries contain a variety of nutrients that may be beneficial for managing neuropathy symptoms. Studies have found:

• Tart cherries are packed with antioxidants called anthocyanins that possess anti-inflammatory effects. Chronic inflammation is believed to be linked to neuropathy pain.
• The anthocyanins in tart cherries may help regulate nerve cell signaling involved in pain perception.
• Tart cherries contain melatonin, which helps regulate sleep. Insomnia and sleep disturbances are common issues for neuropathy patients.
• Tart cherries may improve circulation and vascular function. Poor circulation in the extremities can exacerbate neuropathy symptoms.

Research specifically on tart cherries for neuropathy is limited. However, several studies show promising results:

• A 2019 study found tart cherry juice improved overall neuropathy symptoms, reduced pain, and improved nerve function in neuropathy patients after 12 weeks.
• A 2018 study showed tart cherry juice improved sleep quality and duration in insomnia patients, which could benefit those with neuropathy suffering from sleep problems.
• Multiple studies indicate tart cherry juice can reduce inflammation, which may mitigate neuropathy pain.

While current research is encouraging, larger and longer studies are still needed to further evaluate the efficacy and optimal dosage of tart cherry juice for improving neuropathy symptoms.

How Tart Cherry Nutrients May Reduce Neuropathy Symptoms

Researchers believe the nutrients in tart cherry juice may alleviate common neuropathy symptoms through a few key mechanisms:

Anthocyanins

The anthocyanins that give tart cherries their red color are powerful antioxidants that fight inflammation. Chronic high levels of inflammatory markers are believed to increase neuropathy pain. The anti-inflammatory effects of tart cherries' anthocyanins may help reduce neuro-inflammation and associated pain and discomfort.

Melatonin

In addition to anthocyanins, tart cherries contain a small amount of melatonin. This hormone helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle. Neuropathy patients often experience disrupted sleep patterns and insomnia. Tart cherry juice's melatonin content may support better sleep quality in those with neuropathy.

Vascular Effects

Some research indicates that tart cherry juice can improve arterial function and increase circulating nitric oxide levels. Nitric oxide helps dilate blood vessels. For those with peripheral neuropathy related to poor circulation and blood flow to the extremities, these vascular effects may aid delivery of oxygen and nutrients to damaged nerves.

Other Potential Health Benefits of Tart Cherry Juice

In addition to the potential benefits for peripheral neuropathy, tart cherry juice has been found to offer other advantages that can promote overall wellness in neuropathy patients, including:

• Exercise Recovery - Shown to reduce muscle pain and damage after strenuous exercise
• Heart Health - May improve blood pressure and cholesterol
• Joint Health - Reduces inflammation linked to arthritis and gout
• Diabetes Management - Can lower blood sugar spikes after meals
• Cognitive Function - Anthocyanins may improve memory, focus, and cognition
• Cancer Prevention - Antioxidants neutralize cell-damaging free radicals

For those managing chronic health conditions that increase neuropathy risk, like diabetes, the additional benefits of tart cherry juice are advantageous.

Choosing an Effective Tart Cherry Juice Product

If you're interested in trying tart cherry juice for neuropathy symptoms, choose a product carefully to get the most benefits. Here are some tips for selecting an effective tart cherry juice:

Look for 100% Tart Cherry Juice

Avoid cherry juice "cocktails" with added sugars and concentrates. Seek out 100% tart cherry juice to get the highest concentration of nutrients. Also look for tart cherry juice versus sweet cherry juice, as tart cherries possess higher antioxidant levels.

Check the Ingredients

Read ingredient labels closely to ensure there are no additives like high fructose corn syrup or unnecessary fillers. The only ingredient should be tart cherry juice.

Seek Out Cold-Pressed Juices

Cold pressing involves crushing whole cherries to extract the juice. This preserves more nutrients compared to concentrated juices using extracts. Cold-pressed tart cherry juice provides the biggest nutritional boost.</p

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.