7 Amazing Benefits of Cherries for Skin
Cherries are among the most delectable and widely available fruits we may indulge in. They are rich in antioxidants and vitamins that do wonders for your health and well-being. Yet, few people are aware of exactly how nutritious they are.
So, what are the benefits of cherries for the skin? Cherries are a rich source of vitamins A, B6, C, and E, all of which help support skin health. Due to their high antioxidant content, cherries can slow the aging process by scavenging the body’s free radicals. This is good for health in general, and is particularly important for healthy skin.
Here is what the each nutrient in cherries can do for your skin:
| Vitamin C | Reduces dulles and improves the appearance of fine lines |
| Vitamin A | Moisturizes |
| Potassium | Hydrates skin |
| Vitamin E | Neutralizes free radicals |
| Melatonin | Improves sleep, which is indirectly good for the skin |
| Vitamin K | Reduces inflammatory |
| Antioxidants | Free radical scavenger, reducing effect of harmful UV rays |
This is just a simple summary. There is plenty more to discuss about the benefits of cherries. There are a variety of forms in which you can consume cherries, and obtain these health benefits. Eating cherries raw, consuming cherry juice, and putting cherry paste on your skin are all options. So, let’s dive right in.
Benefits of Cherries for Skin
Now that you know what those healthy bright-red fruits consist of, it’s time to learn about their benefits on a deeper level. First, we will take a look at each of these nutrients in more detail, and describe how those nutrients benefit your skin.
- Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a commonly recommended nutrient to improve skin’s appearance. It is thought to decrease the appearance of aging, brighten skin, and decrease the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, vitamin C encourages the body to produce more collagen, which aids in the long-term maintenance of the skin’s elasticity and firmness.
- Vitamin A
Vitamin A improves skin’s tone and texture. It acts as an exfoliant, helping shed outer dull layers of skin, leaving the bright shine you desire. The dermis and epidermis, the two outermost layers of your skin, are actively nourished by vitamin A.
If you start eating cherries frequently and have acne or skin outbreaks, you could see a reduction in these symptoms. Vitamin A controls the sebum released at the skin’s surface.
- Potassium
Potassium is important in fluid balance within the body. It helps reduce sodium within the body, helping prevent excessive fluid retention. This is beneficial for skin’s appearance, in that it helps maintain an appropriate level of hydration in the skin.
- Vitamin E
Vitamin E enhances blood circulation. It helps circulation everywhere, including in the scalp. This is thought to be important to help minimize hair loss, and allow continued healthy hair growth.
- Melatonin
While melatonin is primarily known for its role in regulating sleep, it has also been studied for its potential benefits for skin health.
Melatonin is an antioxidant that can help protect the skin against free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause damage to cells and contribute to the aging process.
Additionally, melatonin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce redness and irritation in the skin. Therefore, think about including cherries in your normal diet if you want to see improvements in the condition of your skin.
- Vitamin K
Vitamin K can help improve the appearance of certain skin conditions. Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays an important role in blood clotting, bone health, and cardiovascular health. It also has antioxidant properties, which can help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals.
- Antioxidants
Cherries are rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin C and anthocyanins, which help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals can lead to premature aging of the skin, including wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots.
By reducing the harm caused by free radicals from sun exposure, antioxidants can help make up for imperfect use of sunscreen and other sun protection. Skin is damaged via creation of free radicals by UV rays hitting the skin.
Antioxidants “scavenge,” these, and help the body get rid of them, minimizing their harmful effects. This defends the body from conditions like cancer, as well as the appearance of aging skin.

For more information about cherries including information on their acidity, please see our article Are Cherries Acidic?
Should I Eat Cherries Every Day?
After hearing all the benefits, you might be interested in consuming cherries more than ever. But – not so fast! Are there any downsides of eating that many cherries?
Salicylates, a naturally occurring substance found in cherries, may cause sensitivity in certain people. Those who are sensitive to salicylates may have diarrhea, gas, or bloating after consuming large amounts of cherries. Thus, overeating cherries is not a good idea for some people.
To learn more about healthy foods other than cherries, you can always check out our article Why Do Healthy Foods Taste Bad?
Cherry Nutrient Table
Before we talk about these amazing fruit’s skin miracles, you must know what is in those that are causing miracles. So, here is some more information about the nutrition in 1 cup (138g) serving of unpitted cherries:
| Total Calories | 86.9 |
| Total Carbohydrates | 22.1 gm |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.9 gm |
| Sugars | 17.7 gm |
| Vitamin C | 16 % of RDI |
| Vitamin K | 4 % of RDI |
| Potassium | 9 % of RDI |
| Manganese | 5 % of RDI |
| Iron | 3 % of RDI |
| Calcium | 2 % of RDI |
| Magnesium | 4 % of RDI |
How To Make a Paste Out of Cherry for Skin Care?
Before you get to know how to make a paste out of cherry for skin care, you have to choose between skin lightening and radiant skin. As each of them requires different methods, you need to choose one. However, we will show you both.
Skin Lightening Secret Paste
All you need here is a cup of cold water and some cherries. To prepare a paste, chop the cherry into small pieces and mash them. This paste should be applied to your face, then left on for 15 minutes. Use cold water to rinse it off after 15 minutes. The distinction is immediately apparent upon use.
Radiant Skin
For you to have a paste for radiant skin, you will require a few cherries and four tablespoons of yogurt. To create a paste, mix the components in a blender. The paste should be well mixed with 3 tablespoons of yogurt. This thick mixture should be applied to your face and left on for 15 minutes. Fifteen minutes later, wash it off with cool water.
Bonus Tip: Paste for Skin Acne
There is a possibility that you might be here in the first place for your acne problems. Thankfully, cherries solve that too. The secret acne paste consists of lemon, honey, and a cherry.
Chop up some cherries into tiny pieces. The cherry should next be crushed into a paste. Add 1 teaspoon each of honey and lemon juice. They should be well combined. The damaged region or the entire face should be covered with this solution, and it should be left on for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, you may rinse it off with ice water.
Cherry paste can be made easily at home using fresh cherries. Here’s how to make a cherry paste for skin care:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh cherries (pitted and chopped)
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon plain yogurt
Instructions:
- Wash and pit the cherries, then chop them into small pieces.
- Place the cherries in a blender or food processor and blend until they form a smooth puree.
- Transfer the cherry puree to a small mixing bowl.
- Add one tablespoon each of honey and plain yogurt to the bowl and mix well.
- Stir the mixture until you get a smooth paste.
- Apply the paste to your face or any area of your skin that needs attention.
- Leave the paste on your skin for 10-15 minutes.
- Rinse the paste off with warm water and pat your skin dry with a clean towel.
This cherry paste can be used once a week as a natural face mask to exfoliate, brighten, and hydrate the skin. The antioxidants and vitamins present in cherries will help to protect your skin from free radicals and environmental damage, while honey and yogurt will provide moisturizing and antibacterial benefits.
FAQs
That’s probably enough details about cherries for now! Let’s conclude with a few FAQs.
Is cherry juice good for the skin?
There’s no significant difference between cherry juice and raw cherry. As long as you don’t add other minerals to it, the cherry juice will enhance your skin.
What should be avoided for glowing skin?
Coffee, “junk” food, chips, and sweets are the perfect example of what you should avoid for glowing skin.
Will frozen cherries affect my skin?
Cherries may retain a large portion of their nutritional value when frozen naturally. Frozen cherries offer approximately the same nutrition as fresh cherries.
Conclusion
To conclude, like any other fruit, the benefits of cherries for skin are incredible. Unlike creams and lotions, cherries are all natural and have demonstrated benefits to enhance. From small problems like acne to big problems like skin tissue damage, cherries can be beneficial. So what are you waiting for? Add cherries to your diet right away!
Are Broccoli Acidic? Broccoli and Acid Reflux
Broccoli is widely regarded as one of the healthiest vegetables, offering an abundance of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. However, for individuals dealing with acid reflux or GERD, questions arise about its acidity and whether it’s a safe food to consume. Does broccoli trigger acid reflux? Or could it actually help manage symptoms?
In this article, we’ll break down the acidity of broccoli, its effects on acid reflux, and practical tips for incorporating this superfood into your diet safely. Read on to discover everything you need to know about broccoli and its role in managing acid reflux.
Exploring Broccoli’s Acidity: Is Broccoli Acidic or Alkaline?
Broccoli has long been celebrated as a highly nutritious vegetable, but understanding its pH level is crucial for those managing acid reflux.
1. The pH Level of Broccoli
Broccoli is classified as a mildly alkaline food, with a pH level ranging between 6.5 and 7.5. This makes it slightly above neutral on the pH scale. Unlike acidic foods, broccoli is less likely to aggravate acid reflux and may even help balance stomach acidity.
2. Why Broccoli Is Alkaline
- Low Natural Acidity: Unlike citrus fruits or tomatoes, broccoli contains minimal natural acids.
- Rich in Minerals: Minerals like magnesium and calcium contribute to broccoli’s alkalizing effect in the body, helping neutralize stomach acid.
In summary, broccoli is an alkaline vegetable, making it a favorable option for individuals seeking reflux-friendly foods.
The Nutritional Benefits of Broccoli for Acid Reflux
Broccoli’s nutritional profile offers significant health benefits, including its ability to support digestive health. Here’s why broccoli can be a great addition to your diet:
1. High Fiber Content
Broccoli is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which helps promote smooth digestion. Fiber prevents constipation and reduces the risk of bloating, both of which can exacerbate acid reflux symptoms.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
This green vegetable is packed with antioxidants like sulforaphane, which reduce inflammation in the digestive tract. A less inflamed esophagus can lead to fewer acid reflux episodes.
3. Vitamins and Minerals
Broccoli is rich in essential nutrients, including:
- Vitamin C: Helps heal damaged tissues in the esophagus caused by acid reflux.
- Vitamin K: Plays a role in maintaining healthy digestion.
- Magnesium: Known to help balance stomach acid levels.
4. Low Fat and Calories
Unlike fatty foods, broccoli is low in fat and calories, making it a safe and light choice for those prone to reflux.
Can Broccoli Cause Acid Reflux? Debunking Common Myths
Although broccoli is generally considered safe for acid reflux, there are instances where it may cause discomfort. Let’s explore the circumstances under which broccoli could potentially lead to acid reflux.
1. Overeating Broccoli
Consuming large quantities of broccoli in one sitting can cause bloating and gas, putting pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and triggering reflux symptoms.
2. Raw Broccoli vs. Cooked Broccoli
- Raw Broccoli: The high fiber content in raw broccoli can be harder to digest for some individuals, leading to bloating or gas.
- Cooked Broccoli: Steamed or boiled broccoli is easier to digest and less likely to cause discomfort.
3. Individual Sensitivities
Some people may be sensitive to cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, which can lead to mild digestive discomfort. However, this varies from person to person and is not indicative of the vegetable being acidic.
How to Incorporate Broccoli into a Reflux-Friendly Diet?
To enjoy broccoli without triggering acid reflux, it’s essential to prepare and pair it appropriately. Follow these tips for a reflux-safe experience:
1. Opt for Gentle Cooking Methods
- Steaming: Steamed broccoli retains most of its nutrients while being easier on the stomach.
- Boiling: Lightly boiled broccoli is soft and gentle on the digestive system.
- Roasting: Roasting broccoli with a drizzle of olive oil and mild spices can add flavor without increasing acidity.
2. Avoid Over-Seasoning
Spicy or acidic seasonings like chili powder, garlic, or vinegar should be avoided, as they can irritate the stomach and trigger reflux. Instead, use reflux-friendly seasonings like dill, parsley, or turmeric.
3. Pair with Alkaline Foods
Combine broccoli with other reflux-friendly, alkaline foods such as:
- Quinoa or brown rice
- Sweet potatoes
- Leafy greens like spinach or kale
4. Control Portion Sizes
Stick to moderate portions to avoid overeating, which can put pressure on the LES and worsen reflux symptoms.
Related To Read: Are Salads Healthy?
Broccoli Recipes for Acid Reflux Sufferers
1. Steamed Broccoli with Olive Oil and Lemon-Free Dressing
- Ingredients: Fresh broccoli, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Instructions: Steam broccoli for 5-7 minutes, drizzle with olive oil, and season lightly with salt and pepper for a quick, reflux-friendly side dish.
2. Broccoli and Quinoa Bowl
- Ingredients: Steamed broccoli, cooked quinoa, cucumber slices, and a light yogurt dressing.
- Instructions: Mix all ingredients in a bowl and top with a yogurt-based dressing for a healthy, acid reflux-friendly meal.
3. Broccoli and Sweet Potato Mash
- Ingredients: Boiled broccoli, steamed sweet potatoes, and a pinch of salt.
- Instructions: Blend the ingredients into a smooth mash for a hearty, alkaline-rich dish.
Recipe: Broccoli Rabe & Egg Pizza
Tips for Managing Acid Reflux When Eating Broccoli
Even reflux-friendly foods like broccoli should be consumed mindfully. Here are some additional tips to ensure comfort while eating broccoli:
1. Chew Thoroughly
Properly chewing your food aids digestion and reduces the likelihood of gas or bloating.
2. Avoid Eating Late at Night
Finish meals at least 2-3 hours before bedtime to minimize nighttime reflux.
3. Maintain an Upright Position After Meals
Sitting or standing after eating helps keep stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus.
4. Listen to Your Body
If you notice that broccoli consistently causes discomfort, try smaller portions or switch to alternative vegetables like zucchini or carrots.
FAQs About Broccoli and Acid Reflux
1. Is broccoli acidic or alkaline?
Broccoli is alkaline, with a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5.
2. Can broccoli trigger acid reflux?
While broccoli is generally safe, overeating or consuming it raw may cause bloating or gas, which can indirectly trigger reflux.
3. Is steamed broccoli good for acid reflux?
Yes, steamed broccoli is a gentle and reflux-friendly preparation method.
4. Are other cruciferous vegetables safe for acid reflux?
Most cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower and Brussels sprouts are safe when cooked but may cause gas or bloating in sensitive individuals.
5. Can broccoli help reduce acid reflux symptoms?
Broccoli’s alkaline nature and anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce reflux symptoms for many individuals.
Conclusion
Broccoli is a mildly alkaline, nutrient-rich vegetable that can be safely enjoyed by most individuals with acid reflux. By preparing it with gentle cooking methods, avoiding acidic or spicy seasonings, and pairing it with alkaline foods, you can incorporate broccoli into a reflux-friendly diet without discomfort.
As with any food, portion control and individual sensitivities are key. If you’ve been avoiding broccoli due to acid reflux concerns, this guide offers you practical tips and recipes to enjoy its numerous health benefits worry-free.
Feel free to share this article with others and explore more of our acid reflux-friendly content for tips on maintaining a healthy and comfortable diet!
