Gravity Fx Fitness

In a study involving 20 marathoners, runners who drank Montmorency cherry juice recovered faster after running a marathon.

The tart cherry juice was consumed twice a day for 5 days prior to the London marathon and for 2 days after.  These runners recovered strength more rapidly and saw a decrease in inflammation and oxidative stress.

Tart cherries have high amounts of anti-oxidants and  appears to increase the rate of recovery after strenuous exercise.  Long distance endurance events can cause muscle damage and inflammation, taking several days to recover.

During this time, the athletes’ muscles may not contract as efficiently as they did prior to the event.  The juice contains phytochemicals known as anthocyanins.  These contain anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.

One of the researchers, Dr. Glyn Howatson of Northumbria University, thinks that this could have some impact on those suffering with rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia, and thinks that further studies should be completed.

This study was reported in the Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports in 2009.

Get moving!

Brian Morgan

Tweet This Post

I learned of chia seeds and the many health benefits of consuming them, such as the very high anti-oxidant content, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and protein, a little more than a year ago.

I have taken them off and on during that time, either in a protein drink or in my oatmeal (steel cut oats).  They were regarded as a super food among the ancient Aztecs.  They are reported to give you increased energy and endurance.

Recently, I have been reading the book Born to Run by Chris McDougall about the endurance feats of the Tarahumara Indians of Mexico’s Copper Canyons.  Its a fascinating and well written book that looks at endurance running from an interesting perspective.

One particular drink that they consume is Iskiate (chia fresca).  It is made from a brew of chia seeds, lime, and some honey, though there might be other variations, as well.  In the book this concoction was given to the author and also was reported to aid another explorer as he made the climb out of the deep valleys in the region.

This “new” energy drink might be something to consider as a healthier alternative to sodas and some of the commercial energy drinks available.  To see one recipe for this drink go to Runner’s World.

This may be something to help with weight loss as it helps you feel full and may keep your insulin levels from spiking.  You might also be interested in my previous article on chia seeds.

Get moving!

Brian Morgan

Tweet This Post