Tart cherries, especially the Montmorency variety, contain a substantial amount of melatonin, which we already know helps to moderate the sleep cycle. Our bodies make their own melatonin, but sometimes it’s not enough, and the cherries could help to boost dwindling levels.

Melatonin isn’t just involved in the sleep cycle — it’s also a powerful antioxidant that helps fight inflammation that causes achy joints and muscle pain. Cherries contain major synergistic antioxidants, including quercetin and anthocyanins that may help maintain cardiovascular health.

Cherries without sugar are not especially delicious so you might want to add a sprinkle of Stevia or opt for a capsule that packs the age-busting properties. “Eating cherries with high melatonin concentrations will increase the antioxidant capacity in the body,” says Dr. Russel Reiter, Ph.D., whose recent research at the University of Texas quantified the availability and activity of melatonin found in cherries.