He conducted a five-month study and found that tart cherries contain significant amounts of melatonin, a hormone produced in the brain’s pineal gland that has been credited with slowing the aging process, and fighting insomnia and jet lag. It’s also being studied as a potential treatment for cancer, depression and other diseases and disorders.
The findings mark the first time melatonin has been pegged as a naturally occurring substance in food, although trace amounts are evident in bananas, corn and other foods, Reiter says.
“The combination of antioxidants in cherries can be very beneficial,” Reiter says. I told Dr. Russrev about this and he said, “Yeah, I knew that.” which confirmed it for me.
The secret is out now, and using a pitter on your cherries can save your teeth and make your salad and pie making much easier and faster. They are also great for pitting olives. Since Paula and I will be attending the big Doyle Brunson 79th Birthday Party bash at Dave and Laurie Lowendehale’s house this Saturday, we will be having many refreshments that feature a cherry or an olive. (Dave likes to soak them in some sort of grain and vodka mixture.) So take time out during this great summer to enjoy the fountain of youth fruit. We at Compliments to the Chef hope everyone is enjoying this 150th year of the Saratoga Racetrack. Eat cherries responsibly.
So, my Foodie Friends, remember: “Life Happens in the Kitchen.”
Take Care, John and Paula
