If life’s a bowl of cherries, then you’re in good shape – at least when it comes to taking care of your heart and warding off those aches and pains. Both dark and sweet cherries offer a large amount of sweet flavor, antioxidants and are a good source of fiber. 

 

They’re also a healthier choice of sugar than refined sweeteners and processed foods. If you’ve ever had the luxury of eating a cherry straight off the tree, you know there’s nothing like a fresh cherry’s flavor, however you can still buy frozen cherries and fresh from the supermarket when they’re in season during the early spring and summer. If you buy frozen, you needn’t worry about the pits, but if you eat them whole, be sure you pit and stem them first. They make lovely garnishes, additions to smoothies, cakes, pies, and bowls of oatmeal are always a bit cheerier with a few cherries added in.