Consuming cherry juice post-exercise has been shown to reduce the soreness experienced following a hard workout (known as delayed onset muscle soreness or “DOMS”). Cherries contain high levels of polyphenolic compounds including flavonoids and anthocyanins that elicit anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. A recent study on 10 well-trained men who consumed either a cherry juice, or the fruit concentrate beverage (control drink), for one week before and for two days after a series of single leg knee extensions demonstrated that the knee extension maximum voluntary contractions (MVC) recovered significantly faster following consumption of the cherry juice, as compared with the control drink. The researchers concluded that the muscle recovery benefits might be linked to the antioxidant activity of the juice. During intense exercise the production levels of oxidative stress rise, thus potentially causing damage to muscle tissue; this effect, however, may be attenuated with consumption of the cherry juice. Results may vary by individual, consult your doctor today and see if this is right for you!
