Research suggests tart cherry juice enhances recovery and attenuates symptoms of exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD), likely a result of the potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of the cherry.
Key findings of the study. A significant effect on recovery of muscle strength and muscle power. A subgroup analysis identified by exercise type across 3 studies showed a significant effect on tart cherry supplementation on recovery of jump height, and a significant but smaller effect on sprint speed. For the inflammatory biomarkers, a significant effect was observed for inflammation of C-reactive protein and Interleukin 6, but no significant effects were observed for creatine kinase.
More research needed to explain the variations.

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