Natural source of melatonin
Sour cherries are a natural source of melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate sleep-wake cycles. Drinking sour cherry juice can gently increase melatonin levels, helping to improve overall sleep quality.
Contains tryptophan
Sour cherries contain tryptophan. This is an essential amino acid that plays an important role in the production of melatonin. Your body uses tryptophan to produce serotonin, which is then converted into melatonin, helping you fall asleep faster and sleep longer.
Rich in antioxidants
In addition to sleep-advancing nutrients, sour cherry juice also provides powerful antioxidants, which play an indirect role in promoting better sleep and brain health.
Sour cherry juice is a natural source of anthocyanin, an antioxidant compound that can help support deeper, more delicious sleep. Antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
You should drink sour cherry juice with a snack such as whole-wheat grilled banh mi with almond butter. This can help support the absorption of tryptophan and promote relaxation.
In addition, you should drink cherry juice 1-2 hours before bed. Drinking at this time will help limit going to the toilet in the middle of the night.