Cherries are considered one of the healthiest summer berries, but consuming too much can cause bloating, snoring, cramps, and even diarrhea. SM-Clinic gastroenterologist Yulia Zabolotskaya told how many cherries can be eaten at the same time without harming health.
Cherries are rich in natural sugars, including fructose and sorbitol. Some people do not fully digest these sugars and begin to be actively fermented by the intestinal microflora. This leads to increased gas production, a feeling of fullness and discomfort.
"Fiber also plays an additional role in promoting bowel function. This is helpful in moderation, but eating a large bowl of berries at once can have the opposite effect,” he explained.
A daily dose of about 200-300 grams of cherries is considered safe for most healthy adults. This is equivalent to about a cup or two of cherries. "If you eat half or even a kilogram of cherries in one session, the likelihood of unpleasant symptoms increases significantly, especially in people with irritable bowel syndrome, sensitive digestion or fructose intolerance," the doctor warned.
The specialist also focused on children. Their digestive system is more sensitive, so the portions should be significantly smaller and appropriate for their age. It is best to start the cherries gradually, watching their reaction.
"Cherries should not be eaten in large quantities on an empty stomach or used as a substitute for a full meal. It is much better to eat it after the main meal or as a small snack. Moreover, be sure to wash the berries thoroughly, as there may be microorganisms and residues on their surface that can cause intestinal obstruction," explained the gastroenterologist.
He also addressed the common myth that cherries should not be eaten with water.
"Mixing berries with water is not dangerous for a healthy person. "Unpleasant feelings are more often caused by overeating than by drinking a glass of water after eating berries," emphasized the doctor.
"If you regularly experience severe abdominal pain, severe bloating or diarrhea after eating even a small amount of cherries, this may indicate a digestive problem, not the berries being too heavy. In such a situation, it is worth discussing the problem with a doctor, rather than completely eliminating this healthy seasonal fruit from your diet,” he advised.
