What Are the Risks of Eating Too Many Cherries? The Delicious Fruit That Could Cause Trouble!

Side Effects Related to Fiber

Cherries contain a high amount of fiber, with 3 grams per cup. Although this amount of fiber is unlikely to cause side effects, consuming cherries as part of a high-fiber diet—especially when fiber intake increases quickly—can lead to symptoms such as gas, abdominal cramps, and bloating.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Although cherries are rich in nutrients, consuming them instead of other essential nutrients can lead to deficiencies. Cherries are high in carbohydrates, including natural sugars, fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, but they lack sufficient amounts of vitamins, minerals, protein, and unsaturated fats. However, if cherries are consumed in the recommended amounts as part of a balanced diet, they won’t cause nutritional deficiencies.

Allergies

If you're allergic to cherries, the side effects can be unpleasant or even dangerous in some cases. According to the American Academy of Asthma, Allergy, and Immunology, a cherry allergy may manifest as throat tightness, difficulty breathing, and hives. If you experience any of these symptoms after eating cherries, avoid consuming them and consult a doctor. It’s worth noting that if you're allergic to cherries, you may also be allergic to other fruits.

Recommended Intake

Even if you are not allergic to cherries, it’s best to consume them in the recommended daily amount as part of a balanced diet to avoid side effects from overconsumption and nutritional deficiencies. According to the U.S. Dietary Guidelines, in a 1600-calorie daily diet, you can consume one and a half cups of cherries. In a 2000-calorie daily diet, the recommended intake is two cups, and in a 2800-calorie diet, it is two and a half cups.