Top off your workout with cherry juice

Better Nutrition, Nov, 2006

Cherries and other purple foods in the berry family are touted for their high antioxidant content, but a new British Journal of Sports Medicine study suggests that tart cherry juice can also help decrease exercise-induced muscle pain and damage. The study divided 14 male college students into two groups: Half were given 12 ounces of a highly concentrated tart cherry juice blend twice daily for eight days, and the others received a placebo.

The cherry juice group experienced significantly less strength loss and pain after performing a series of elbow flexion contractions. A natural alternative to anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen, this tart juice may make your exercise session, and the ensuing soreness, a little sweeter.