WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: Bing cherries are the dainty darling of the summer season! Although usually sold alongside baskets of berries, these extra-sweet cherries are actually part of the stone-fruit family, much like peaches and plums. They are ripe for the picking from the latter half of May until mid-August, making this a perfect time to incorporate them into your daily diet.

WHY YOU SHOULD TRY IT: You know what they say: It’s not what’s on the outside, but on the inside that counts! Consuming these sweet ruby red beauties reduces inflammation in the body, which is probably the reason they’re a popular choice amongst athletes who engage in regular strenuous activity. These anti-inflammatory properties make cherries fantastic for those suffering from gout and arthritis. They are also notorious for not only reviving damaged skin cells, but they prevent certain cancerous cells (like colon cancer) from forming. Add that to their ability to reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes, and you’ll be rushing off to the farmer’s market in no time!

LET’S GET TOGETHER: Bing cherries can be consumed year-round dried, frozen or as juice. But we love to eat them fresh by the bowlful! The Chocolate Cherry Superfood Smoothie included in this story about energy slumps is a cherry-lovers dream and full of energy rejuvenating powers!