Tart Cherry Juice and Joint Health: What the Research Shows

Published: October 2023 | Updated October 2025

Quick Summary Bullets

Helps maintain healthy joint comfort and mobility
Provides antioxidant compounds that support a balanced inflammation response
Backed by published studies on Montmorency tart cherries

Finding Natural Support for Joint Health

If you’re among the many people looking for natural ways to support comfortable movement and joint function, tart cherry juice may offer a valuable option. This vibrant, ruby-red juice—made from Montmorency tart cherries—contains unique plant compounds that help the body manage oxidative stress and maintain a healthy inflammation balance.

Unlike many over-the-counter options that may cause unwanted side effects, tart cherry juice supports your body’s natural processes to keep joints feeling their best.

Research_backed_benefits_of_drinking_cherry_juice

What the Science Says About Tart Cherries and Joint Comfort

Research suggests that anthocyanins—the natural pigments responsible for the bright red color of tart cherries—play a key role in helping the body regulate normal inflammatory responses.

In one 6-week published study on tart cherries of adults who consumed tart cherry juice daily, participants may enjoy healthy joint function. Other published research indicates that anthocyanins may act in similar pathways to those influenced by common antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables, helping the body respond to everyday physical stress.

Tart cherries also contain quercetin, another naturally occurring antioxidant that helps protect joint tissues from oxidative stress and supports cartilage health.

At a Glance: The naturally occurring anthocyanins and quercetin in tart cherries help the body maintain normal inflammation levels and support comfortable joint movement.

Choosing the Right Tart Cherry Juice

For the greatest benefit, look for 100% pure Montmorency tart cherry juice or a tart cherry juice concentrate made without added sugar or preservatives. Montmorency cherries are the most researched variety and contain higher levels of anthocyanins than sweet cherry types.

Tip: Fruit Advantage Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate is made using as much Michigan-grown fruit as possible, offering the industry’s only sediment-free guarantee and the assurance of 38+ national food awards for taste and purity.

Find out more about FREE shipping on six bottle of 100% cherry juice concentrate.

Look for juice that is 100% pure tart cherry juice with no added sugars or ingredients. Concentrated tart cherry juice makes it easier to get a potent dose of anthocyanins in a small serving. Many tart cherry juice products provide a Nutrition Facts panel. Check out the label for our Cherry Juice Concentrate.

How Much Tart Cherry Juice to Drink

While there is no official daily recommendation, most studies used 6–12 ounces of tart cherry juice per day, or 1 ounce of concentrate mixed with 7 ounces of water once or twice daily. Consistency appears to be more important than quantity—regular use helps maintain antioxidant activity in the body.

If you prefer a sugar-free option, tart cherry capsules provide a concentrated source of the same anthocyanins and can be taken with water.

Lifestyle Tips to Support Joint Comfort

For best results, pair tart cherry juice with other healthy habits that promote joint wellness:

Eat an anti-inflammatory diet rich in colorful fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and olive oil.
Engage in gentle movement such as walking, swimming, or yoga to keep joints flexible.
Manage stress through mindfulness, meditation, or stretching to support overall wellbeing.
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce mechanical strain on joints.
Consider natural supplements such as omega-3s, curcumin, or tart cherry capsules as part of your routine.

At a Glance: Combining tart cherry juice with balanced nutrition, regular activity, and stress management supports long-term joint comfort and mobility.

FAQ – Tart Cherry Juice and Joint Health

Q: Can tart cherry juice help support healthy joints?
A: Tart cherry juice provides antioxidants, including anthocyanins and quercetin, that help the body maintain a healthy inflammation balance and support joint comfort.

Q: How much tart cherry juice should I drink daily?
A: Research studies typically use 6–12 ounces of juice, or 1 ounce of concentrate mixed with 7 ounces of water, once or twice per day.

Q: What is the best time to drink tart cherry juice?
A: Many people enjoy a serving in the morning for antioxidant support and again in the evening for natural sleep support. Consistency is key.

Q: Are there any side effects of drinking tart cherry juice?
A: Tart cherry juice is generally well tolerated. However, it contains natural sorbitol, which may cause mild digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.

Q: What type of cherries are used in the best tart cherry juice?
A: Montmorency tart cherries are the most studied variety for joint and recovery support. Look for 100% pure USA-grown Montmorency juice without added sugars.

Enjoy a healthy lifestyle naturally by joining our newsletter for wellness tips!

Check Out Other Resources: