Tart cherry juice has become a popular dietary addition for people seeking to manage the inflammation and joint discomfort associated with arthritis. This growing interest focuses specifically on the tart Montmorency cherry, known for its concentration of beneficial plant compounds. Finding the correct product is the first step in incorporating this supplement into a daily routine.
Selecting the Right Cherry Juice Product
The first step in purchasing is distinguishing between tart and sweet cherry juice, as they are not interchangeable for arthritis management. Only the tart Montmorency variety contains the high levels of anti-inflammatory compounds, called anthocyanins, linked to these health benefits. Sweet cherry juice lacks the necessary concentration of these compounds to offer the same potential relief.
Shoppers must also choose between ready-to-drink juice and a highly concentrated form. Ready-to-drink juice is convenient and requires no preparation, typically sold as a single-strength juice in bottles. Concentrate is significantly more potent, with the water content removed to create a thick, shelf-stable liquid.
Concentrate is often the more cost-effective option because a small amount is diluted to make a full serving. Regardless of the form chosen, look for products labeled “100% juice” with no added sugars, preservatives, or artificial flavorings. Avoiding added sweeteners helps manage total daily sugar intake, as cherry juice is already naturally high in sugar.
Where Retailers Stock Tart Cherry Juice
Locating the correct product can be challenging, as placement varies significantly across different retail environments. In major grocery stores, ready-to-drink juice is usually found in the refrigerated juice aisle near specialty beverages. The more potent concentrate, however, is frequently stocked on the shelf in the health and wellness aisle, sometimes alongside vitamins or supplements. This separation means shoppers must check both areas. Always confirm the product is 100% Montmorency tart cherry.
Online retailers offer the widest selection and are a convenient option for comparing brands and reading reviews. Shopping online is particularly helpful for purchasing heavier concentrate in bulk, which can lead to significant cost savings. Consumers should be mindful of shipping costs for liquids, though many brand websites offer subscription discounts.
Specialty Stores
Health food stores and specialty vitamin shops are excellent resources for high-end or niche options. These stores often carry organic or small-batch brands of juice and concentrate. They may also stock alternative forms, such as freeze-dried powder or capsules, which are convenient for travel or for those avoiding the natural sugars in liquid forms.
Bulk Clubs
Bulk and wholesale clubs offer a solution for long-term users looking for the best price per ounce. Purchasing large bottles of concentrate from these clubs is an economical strategy for consistent daily use. The concentrate is shelf-stable and lasts a long time when stored correctly in the refrigerator.
Guidelines for Daily Consumption
Consistent daily intake is necessary to see the potential anti-inflammatory effects. Most studies suggest consuming the equivalent of 8 to 12 ounces of ready-to-drink tart cherry juice per day. This daily amount is typically split into two servings to help maintain a steady level of beneficial compounds.
If using a concentrate, the general serving size is one to two tablespoons mixed with water or another liquid. A common preparation method is mixing the concentrate with eight ounces of water to reconstitute it into a single-strength juice. Consuming one serving in the morning and a second in the evening may also offer the additional benefit of improved sleep quality.
All fruit juice, including the tart variety, contains natural sugars. Individuals with blood sugar concerns, such as those with diabetes, should factor the juice’s carbohydrate content into their daily diet plan. Mixing the concentrate into a smoothie or simply diluting it with cold water are effective ways to incorporate the supplement.