Here’s why it’s worth a sip.

But theres one underrated dark horse beverage that deserves a closer look: Tart cherry juice.

Here are all the reasons to sip on tart cherry juiceespecially after a tough workout or before bedtime.

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Youll be mad you hadnt tried it before.

4 tart cherry juice benefits for your health and well-being

1.

Improved heart health

Thats righttart cherry juice may protect your heart for the long term.

Photography of a apple juice in glasses and apples in a wicker basket on wooden table

board-certified sports dietitian

Itsrich in melatonin, Jones says, and melatonin is critical for healthy sleep-wake cycles.

(Itsbeloved by functional medicine doctorsfor a reason.)

Looking for other bedtime eats and drinks?

red pigment in a wooden spoon

Check out these RD-approved picks:

3.

It may benefit athletes most after their heavy training and adaptation period, she adds.

But its not necessarily a one-and-done kind of deal.

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Are there any downsides to tart cherry juice?

Ironically, despite the sugar content, tart cherry juice doesnt taste sweetwhich might be offputting to some.

Start with the eight ounces and go up from there, if desired.

Cropped shot of young woman shopping in the dairy section of a supermarket. She is reading the nutrition label on a container of fresh organic healthy natural yoghurt

board-certified sports dietitian

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A hand is stirring a sourdough starter in a glass jar, on a kitchen countertop. The light casts a warm glow, highlighting the ingredients inside the jar.

Two cups with coffee and green tea on a beige background.