Oxidative stress has been linked to many diseases associated with aging, including coronary heart disease and Alzheimer's disease. Antioxidants and special proteins in the body work together to help prevent damage by free radicals. Some studies have indicated that as people age, they are less able to fight off oxidative stress and have increased levels of inflammation.

Tart cherries are known to be rich in antioxidants and plant-nutrients. The product we are using in this study is an all-natural tart cherry juice, mixed with apple juice concentrate and containing no additives and no preservatives.

We hope to learn whether antioxidant supplementation, such as tart cherry juice, can measurably decrease oxidative damage and inflammation associated with aging.

Objectives

The primary objective of this pilot study is to investigate whether tart cherry juice consumption can reduce oxidative stress in older adults as measured by attenuation of F2-isoprostane responses to a forearm ischemia-reperfusion, and a decrease in urinary excretion products of oxidative damage. The secondary objective is to examine whether age-sensitive markers of inflammation are reduced in response to the cherry juice consumption.

Inclusion Criteria:

• men and women, ages 55-80y, in good health, with >8 years of education
• non-smoker
• able to give informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• use of anti-oxidant supplements, in excess of a standard multi-vitamins
• current hormone replacement therapy
• any history of significant chronic disease
• uncontrolled hypertension
• body mass index (BMI) > 30 kg/m2
• high physical activity level, as determined by questions on the screening questionnaire
• use of anti-inflammatory medication