Effects of a Tart Cherry Juice Beverage on the Sleep of Older Adults with Insomnia: A Pilot Study

A small study was done by the University of Pennsylvania, University of Rochester, and VA Center of Canandaigua where researchers delved into the hypothesis that tart cherries may help those with insomnia.  This is thought to be possible because tart cherries containing a hormone called melatonin.  This hormone has sleep regulating properties and may be the mechanism that helps with insomnia.  A pilot double blind placebo trial was done with 15 elderly participants—because their high rates of insomnia.  Half were given an 8 oz. juice containing Montmorency tart cherries; the other half were given 8 oz. of a placebo (a Kool-Aid juice with similar color). The study totaled 8 weeks. What did researchers find at the conclusion of this study?  After psychoanalysis of participants and comparison of the two groups, researchers suggested that tart cherry juice may modestly improve sleep.

Taking into consideration this study contained a small sample size, its results are promising but further research is needed.  Also the juice used in the study was provided by CherryPharm, Inc. Guess who funded the entire study? CherryPharm, Inc.

If you find yourself unable to get a good night sleep or suffering from insomnia, tart cherry juice won’t cure you.  On the bright side Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate won’t hurt you either so it may be worth a try.