Dietitian informed me about the quantity of cherries consumable.
Cherry season is upon us, but indulging too much may not be the best for our health. Let's talk about how many cherries we should be eating daily without causing harm to our body, based on the insights from Dr. Sofya Eliashvili, a dietitian, therapist, and head of the laboratory for studying and correcting eating behavior at the National Medical Research Center.
Before we dive in, it's essential to understand that cherry is known for its beneficial properties—it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, improves metabolism, and slows down aging processes. These benefits, however, come at a cost. Cherries are high in caloric content, with approximately 500 calories in a kilogram, and a serving contains 15 grams of sugar.
Dr. Eliashvili draws our attention to FODMAP substances in cherries, which can lead to bloating, diarrhea, and exacerbate symptoms in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). To put it simply, FODMAPs include fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, polyols, lactose, fructose, fructans, galactans, and sugar alcohols. If you experience these symptoms, Dr. Eliashvili recommends opting for strawberries instead.
The conventional wisdom for consuming all types of fruits remains the same. It's better to eat berries during the day, distributing small portions between main meals when activity levels are highest.
Now, to ensure we get the right advice, it's essential to note that Dr. Sofya Eliashvili may not be a widely recognized authority on IBS or cherry consumption in the scientific community or leading digestive health guidelines. A standard, universally accepted threshold for the exact number of cherries safe for IBS patients (or specifically regarding bloating and diarrhea) does not exist.
To minimize risks, you should start with a small number of cherries—perhaps 5–10—and carefully monitor for digestive symptoms like bloating or diarrhea. If you find it tolerable, you can gradually increase the number. If you have concerns or suffer from severe IBS, consult a registered dietitian or gastroenterologist for personalized advice.
Moscow, Elena Vasilyeva
© 2025, RIA "Novyi Den"
Science reveals that cherries, despite their health advantages like anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, require moderation due to their high caloric content and FODMAP substances. In health-and-wellness and nutrition contexts, a healthy diet might suggest starting with a modest serving of 5-10 cherries, observing for adverse symptoms, and increasing intake if tolerated, while maintaining close communication with health professionals, especially if dealing with specific conditions like IBS.
