Tart Cherries: Proven to aid in recovery

Tart Cherry for Muscle Recovery: The Science-Backed Benefits for Athletes

At Neve, we’re all about plant-based, functional nutrition designed for and by athletes. That’s why our Tart Cherry Cacao smoothie pouch isn’t just a rich, chocolate experience—it’s packed with functional ingredients that fuel endurance and speed up recovery. One of the standout ingredients? Tart cherries—a powerhouse fruit backed by science for reducing muscle soreness, fighting inflammation, and supporting performance.

If you’re looking for a convenient and effective way to support your recovery, our smoothie pouches for adults offer the perfect blend of nutrients, including tart cherries for muscle recovery, to keep you performing at your best.

The Science Behind Tart Cherries for Muscle Recovery

Tart cherries (Prunus cerasus) are rich in anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants known for their anti-inflammatory and muscle recovery benefits. These compounds help combat oxidative stress caused by intense exercise, making tart cherry juice for muscle recovery a natural and effective solution. Many athletes rely on tart cherry for recovery due to its scientifically proven benefits.

Proven Benefits of Tart Cherry Juice for Recovery

1. Faster Muscle Recovery

Research suggests that tart cherry juice supports muscle recovery by reducing muscle damage and soreness after intense exercise. A study published in the Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports found that marathon runners who consumed tart cherry juice for recovery experienced less muscle pain and strength loss post-race compared to those who didn’t. (Howatson et al., 2010). As research on tart cherry for muscle recovery continues to grow, more endurance athletes are turning to this natural remedy for post-workout recovery.

2. Reduced Inflammation & Oxidative Stress

Heavy training loads lead to inflammation, but tart cherries used for recovery have been shown to decrease markers of inflammation, like C-reactive protein (CRP). A 2017 review concluded that tart cherry supplementation reduces inflammation and helps athletes recover faster. Cherry juice and muscle recovery go hand in hand, making it an essential addition to any athlete’s routine.

3. Improved Sleep & Recovery

Sleep is critical for muscle repair, and tart cherries are one of the few natural sources of melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep. Research suggests that consuming tart cherry juice for muscle recovery can increase sleep efficiency and duration, helping athletes recover better.

4. Enhanced Endurance & Performance

A study on endurance athletes found that tart cherry juice post-workout improved VO2 max and time-to-exhaustion, meaning better oxygen efficiency and sustained performance during long workouts. Whether you’re an ultrarunner, cyclist, or skier, tart cherry recovery can help optimize your performance and recovery.

Why Neve? Athlete-Backed Nutrition with Functional Ingredients

At Neve, we prioritize science-driven, plant-based nutrition to help endurance athletes perform their best. Our Tart Cherry Cacao smoothie pouch includes 5 grams of plant protein, combining the recovery power of tart cherries with other nutrient-dense ingredients to deliver clean, convenient fuel that supports performance.

Whether you’re recovering from a long run, gearing up for race day, or looking for a natural way to fight inflammation, tart cherries for muscle recovery provide scientifically backed benefits to help you perform at your best.

Our smoothie pouches for adults are designed for active lifestyles, offering a portable, resealable, and nutrient-dense option for those on the go. With Neve’s pouch smoothies, you can fuel your body with high-quality, plant-based ingredients that support endurance and recovery.

References:

• McHugh, M. P., & P. J. Connolly. (2013). The effect of tart cherry juice on muscle recovery following marathon running. PMC9306613. Retrieved from PMC

• Howatson, G., & E. M. McHugh. (2010). The influence of tart cherry juice on indices of recovery following marathon running. PubMed. Retrieved from PubMed