As they look for solutions, Montmorency tart cherries have been quickly gaining recognition as a natural source of melatonin. In fact, emerging research suggests that drinking Montmorency tart cherry juice twice a day may help increase the duration and quality of sleep.

Anthocyanins are also linked to reducing inflammation, at levels comparable to some pain medications.

While previous research suggests tart cherry juice may help aid muscle recovery after extensive exercise, a new pilot study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition1 found that Montmorency tart cherry juice reduced upper respiratory tract symptoms associated with marathon running in study participants. Post-race sniffles are a common problem among endurance athletes.