What is Cherry, Its Benefits and History

Introduction To Cherries: Origins And Varieties

Cherries, often referred to as the “jewels” of the fruit world, are the perfect combination of sweet and tangy. They are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits that make them a popular choice among health-conscious individuals. Originating from the regions around the Black Sea, cherries have been enjoyed for thousands of years. The fruit has come a long way since then, with many varieties available worldwide today.

There are two main types of cherries: sweet cherries and sour cherries. Sweet cherries, also known as dessert cherries, are the kind that you would typically eat fresh or use in baking. They have a firm, juicy texture and a deep, rich flavor. In contrast, sour cherries are smaller and tarter in taste. They are often used for canning, cooking, or making pies and jams due to their sourness. Among the many different varieties of cherries, some of the most popular types include Bing, Rainier, and Montmorency.

• Bing cherries, known for their heart-shaped and deep red appearance, are the most commonly found variety in the market.
• Rainier cherries, on the other hand, are yellow with a pink blush and have a sweet flavor.
• Montmorency cherries, a type of sour cherry, are the most popular tart cherry variety.

Cherries, once a luxury item reserved only for royalty, are now easily accessible throughout the year thanks to modern transportation and storage techniques. They are available fresh, canned, juiced, and frozen, making them a versatile ingredient in many dishes. With their sweet and tangy flavor and numerous health benefits, cherries are a fruit worth indulging in.

Cherries are more than just a tasty fruit to enjoy. They are also a symbol of the arrival of summer and a reminder of how nature always finds a way to provide us with delicious, nutritious food. Whether you eat them fresh or include them in your meals, cherries are a must-have in any healthy diet.

The Nutritional Composition Of Cherries

Cherries are a popular fruit across the world, known for their sweet taste and vibrant color. But, did you know that cherries are also packed with essential nutrients that are beneficial for your health? In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the nutritional composition of cherries.

An important aspect of cherries is their low calorie count. A cup of cherries contains just 87 calories, making them a great snack option for those watching their weight. Cherries are also a good source of fiber, with a cup providing 3 grams of fiber.

• Cherries are high in vitamin C, containing a whopping 18% of the recommended daily intake per cup. Vitamin C is crucial for immune system health and has been shown to help with collagen production, which can improve skin health.
• Cherries also contain vitamin K, which is important for bone health and blood coagulation.
• Additionally, they are a good source of potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and prevent muscle cramps.

Cherries also contain antioxidants that can help protect against various diseases. These include anthocyanins, which give cherries their bright color and have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects in the body. Other antioxidants in cherries include quercetin and ellagic acid, which have been linked to reduced risk of cancer and heart disease.

In conclusion, cherries are not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. They contain essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can benefit your health in numerous ways. So, next time you reach for a snack, consider grabbing a handful of cherries.

The Health Benefits Of Eating Cherries

Cherries offer more than just a sweet and tangy flavor. These delightful fruits are packed with various essential nutrients that are beneficial for health. So, what exactly are the health benefits of eating cherries?

Firstly, cherries are loaded with antioxidants that help protect the body against damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. The anthocyanins and carotenoids present in cherries are potent antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation, prevent chronic diseases and promote overall health.

• Anthocyanins give cherries their bright red color and have been found to have a hand in preventing heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease. They also have anti-inflammatory and anti-obesity effects.
• Carotenoids have been linked to a lower risk of age-related macular degeneration, which is a leading cause of blindness in older people.

Secondly, cherries are an excellent source of fiber, Vitamin C, and potassium. These nutrients have been found to have numerous health benefits such as reducing blood pressure, improving digestion, and boosting the immune system. Just one cup of cherries contains about 3 grams of fiber, which is about 12% of the daily recommended value.

1. Fiber helps in the regulation of bowel movements and can aid in preventing constipation, diverticulosis, and other bowel disorders. It also helps in controlling blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for people with diabetes.
2. Vitamin C helps in the production of collagen, a protein that provides structure to the skin, bones, and muscles. It also aids in the absorption of iron, which is important for the production of red blood cells that transport oxygen to various parts of the body.
3. Potassium is a mineral that helps regulate fluid balance, muscle contractions, and nerve signals.

Last but not least, cherries have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce muscle soreness, joint pain, and inflammation caused by various health conditions. A study conducted on runners showed that consuming cherry juice before and after a long-distance run decreased muscle soreness and improved recovery time.

In conclusion, incorporating cherries into your diet can provide various health benefits. They are a delicious way to add more nutrients to your routine and can be eaten in various forms such as fresh, frozen, dried, or juiced. So, grab a handful of cherries the next time you’re looking for a healthy and refreshing snack!

Top 5 Ways To Incorporate Cherries İnto Your Diet

Cherries are one of the most delicious and nutritious fruits that you can incorporate into your diet. These small, red fruits are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that offer a range of health benefits. If you are looking for some new and exciting ways to add cherries to your diet, we’ve got you covered! Here are the top 5 ways you can incorporate cherries into your diet:

1. Eat them fresh: The simplest and most obvious way to incorporate cherries into your diet is to eat them fresh. Simply wash a handful of cherries, remove the pits, and enjoy them as a sweet and healthy snack.
2. Add them to smoothies: Cherries add a delicious and nutritious boost to your morning smoothie. Simply blend fresh cherries with your favorite fruits, yogurt, and milk or juice for a delicious and healthy breakfast.
3. Bake with them: Cherries are a great addition to baked goods like pies, muffins, and cakes. You can even make your own cherry jam or jelly to use as a spread on toast or crackers.
4. Make cherry salsa: For a fresh and tangy twist on traditional salsa, try making your own cherry salsa. Simply chop up fresh cherries, tomatoes, cilantro, and onion and mix together with lime juice and a pinch of salt.

With these top 5 ways to incorporate cherries into your diet, you can enjoy the delicious taste and amazing health benefits of this superfood in a variety of ways. So what are you waiting for? Head to your local farmers market or grocery store and pick up some fresh cherries today!

Why Cherries Are Great For Athletes And Fitness Enthusiasts

Cherries are a delicious and nutritious fruit that can provide many benefits for athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Not only are they packed with important vitamins and minerals, but they also have some unique properties that can help improve athletic performance and aid in post-workout recovery.

One of the key benefits of cherries for athletes is their anti-inflammatory properties. Tart cherries, in particular, are high in compounds called anthocyanins, which have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body. This can be especially helpful for athletes who experience muscle soreness or joint pain after intense exercise.

Cherries can also help improve sleep quality, which is essential for athletes who need to rest and recover in between workouts. Research has found that cherries naturally contain melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Consuming cherries or cherry juice before bed may help promote more restful and restorative sleep.

• Cherries can also provide a natural source of energy for athletes. They are high in carbohydrates, which can help fuel workouts and improve endurance. Additionally, cherries contain natural sugars that can provide a quick boost of energy when needed.
• Consuming cherries after a workout may also help speed up recovery time. They are rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce oxidative stress in the body and promote healing.
• Cherries can be a versatile and delicious addition to an athlete’s diet. They can be eaten on their own as a snack, added to smoothies or oatmeal, or used as a topping for yogurt or granola.

Overall, cherries are a great choice for athletes and fitness enthusiasts who are looking to improve their performance, speed up recovery time, and support their overall health and well-being.

The Role Of Cherries İn Preventing Chronic Diseases

Cherries are a delicious fruit that are packed with nutrients and antioxidants. These small, red fruits are not only tasty but also have a lot of health benefits. One of the most important benefits of cherries is their ability to prevent chronic diseases. Studies have shown that consuming cherries regularly can help reduce the risk of many chronic diseases, making it an excellent addition to your diet.

Cherries are known to be high in antioxidants, which help to fight off free radicals that damage our cells and cause chronic diseases. These antioxidants are found in the skin and flesh of the fruit, so it’s important to eat the whole fruit to get the full benefit. One study found that consuming cherries reduced the levels of inflammatory markers in the bloodstream, which are associated with many chronic diseases.

• Some of the chronic diseases that cherries can help to prevent include:
  1. Heart disease
  2. Type 2 diabetes
  3. Cancer
  4. Alzheimer’s disease
  5. Arthritis

Cherries are also rich in fiber, which helps to promote good digestive health. This can help to reduce the risk of developing digestive disorders such as constipation, bloating, and irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, cherries are a good source of potassium, which is important for maintaining normal blood pressure levels.

Incorporating cherries into your diet is easy. You can eat them as a snack or use them in recipes like smoothies, salads, or desserts. Dried cherries are another great option, as they can be added to trail mix or used in baking. You can even enjoy cherry juice or take cherry supplements to get the health benefits of cherries.

Overall, cherries are a superfood that has many health benefits. Their high antioxidant content helps to prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes. Eating cherries is an easy way to improve your health and wellbeing, so don’t hesitate to incorporate them into your diet today!

Can Eating Cherries Help You Sleep Better?

If you are someone who struggles with getting a good night’s sleep, you are not alone. Many people experience difficulty falling and staying asleep, which can have a negative impact on overall health and well-being. However, there may be a natural solution that you have not yet thought of: cherries.

Cherries are a tasty and healthy fruit that may offer some surprising benefits when it comes to improving sleep quality. Research has shown that cherries contain a high amount of a compound called melatonin, which is a hormone that helps to regulate sleep and wake cycles.

• In one study, participants who drank tart cherry juice twice a day for two weeks experienced an increase in sleep time of over 80 minutes per night.
• Another study found that consuming cherries improved sleep quality and reduced insomnia symptoms in adults.

It is important to note that while eating cherries may improve your sleep, it is not a miracle cure for chronic sleep disorders. However, incorporating cherries into your diet may be a helpful supplement to other sleep-promoting habits, such as setting a consistent sleep schedule and avoiding caffeine before bed.

1. One easy way to add cherries to your diet is to snack on them fresh or dried.
2. You can also try adding cherries to smoothies, yogurt bowls, or salads for a delicious and nutritious boost.
3. Cherry juice, especially tart cherry juice, is another great option. It can be enjoyed on its own or used to flavor other beverages.
4. For a unique twist, try making savory dishes with cherries, such as a cherry glaze for roasted meats or a cherry salsa for fish tacos.

In conclusion, cherries have numerous health benefits, including potentially improving sleep quality and quantity. Incorporating cherries into your diet is a simple and tasty way to promote overall health and well-being.

How Cherries Can Boost Your Immune System

Cherries are a delicious fruit that are enjoyed by many people around the world. Not only are they tasty, but they also have many health benefits. One of the most notable benefits of cherries is their ability to boost the immune system.

Cherries are rich in vitamins and antioxidants that help fight off infections and diseases. They are particularly high in vitamin C, which is well-known for its immune-boosting properties. A single cup of cherries can provide up to 16% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C.

• Cherry juice is also a great way to boost the immune system. Research has shown that drinking cherry juice can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
• Cherries also contain anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants that can help protect cells from damage. They have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating effects, which can help support the immune system.

Another way cherries can boost the immune system is through their ability to promote healthy gut bacteria. Research has shown that the microbiome plays a crucial role in immune function, and consuming cherries can help promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria.

Overall, cherries are a great addition to any diet, especially for those looking to boost their immune system. Whether eaten fresh, dried, or in juice form, cherries are a delicious and nutritious way to stay healthy.

Cherry Extracts And Their Potential Health Benefits

Did you know that cherries are not just a delicious fruit, but also have numerous health benefits? In recent years, the use of cherry extracts as a dietary supplement has gained popularity due to its many potential health benefits. These extracts are made by concentrating the active compounds found in cherries, which can provide a range of benefits for your body. Let’s delve deeper into the potential health benefits of cherry extracts.

The main active compound found in cherries is anthocyanin, which is responsible for giving cherries their bright red color. This compound has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Cherry extracts also contain melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep patterns, which can help to improve sleep.

• Reduction of inflammation: Cherry extracts are known to reduce inflammation in the body, making them beneficial for people with conditions such as arthritis and gout.
• Improved sleep: Due to the presence of melatonin, cherry extracts can help to regulate sleep patterns, resulting in a better quality of sleep.
• Reduced muscle soreness: Cherry extracts have been found to reduce post-exercise muscle soreness and inflammation, making them beneficial for athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
• Lower risk of chronic diseases: The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of cherry extracts may help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.

It is important to note that while cherry extracts have many potential health benefits, more research is needed to fully understand their effects on the body. Additionally, it is always recommended to consult your healthcare provider before taking any dietary supplements, including cherry extracts.

Cherry extracts are available in various forms such as juice concentrate, capsules, and powders. It is important to choose a high-quality product from a reputable supplier to ensure the product contains the desired active compounds. The recommended dosage of cherry extracts may vary depending on the product, so be sure to follow the instructions on the label or consult with a healthcare professional.

In conclusion, cherry extracts have many potential health benefits due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. While more research is needed to fully understand their effects on the body, incorporating cherry extracts into your diet as a dietary supplement may offer a range of health benefits.

Cherries As An Anti-Inflammatory Superfood

Cherries are not only a delicious fruit but also a superfood packed with essential nutrients that are great for our health. These tiny treats come in different varieties such as sweet or sour, and they are enjoyed by many around the world. One of the most significant benefits of cherries is their anti-inflammatory properties, which help to prevent chronic inflammation that can lead to several health conditions.

According to research, cherries contain compounds such as anthocyanins and other polyphenols that have potent anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds help to reduce inflammation by blocking certain enzymes that promote inflammation in the body. The anti-inflammatory benefits of cherries can be particularly helpful for people living with conditions such as arthritis, gout, and other inflammatory conditions.

• Cherries are also a rich source of antioxidants that help to fight off free radicals in the body. The antioxidants in cherries can help to reduce oxidative stress, which is a leading cause of chronic inflammation and several diseases.
• Incorporating cherries into your diet is an excellent way to enjoy their anti-inflammatory benefits. You can add them to your smoothies, salads, or cereals or enjoy them as a dry snack.

1. The anti-inflammatory benefits of cherries don’t stop there; cherries are also a great source of melatonin. This hormone helps to regulate our sleep-wake cycle and is beneficial for people who struggle with sleeplessness or insomnia.
2. The anti-inflammatory benefits of cherries make them an excellent superfood for people trying to manage inflammation in their bodies. Cherries are a delightful addition to any diet and have numerous health benefits that make them a must-try for anyone looking to improve their overall health.

In conclusion, cherries are an anti-inflammatory superfood that can help to prevent chronic inflammation in the body. They are an excellent source of essential nutrients that are beneficial for our overall health. By incorporating cherries into our diet, we can enjoy their anti-inflammatory benefits and improve our health in many ways.

The Antioxidant Properties Of Cherries

Cherries are a type of fruit with a vibrant red color and a sweet taste. They are known for their numerous health benefits, one of which is their high antioxidant content. Antioxidants are compounds that help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals can cause oxidative stress, which can lead to chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease.

Studies have shown that cherries contain high levels of antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins and flavonoids. These compounds give cherries their red color and have been found to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. In fact, cherries are one of the richest sources of anthocyanins, with tart cherries containing even higher levels than sweet varieties.

• Antioxidants help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• Cherries are a rich source of anthocyanins and flavonoids, both of which are powerful antioxidants.
• Tart cherries contain higher levels of antioxidants than sweet cherries.

In addition to their antioxidant properties, cherries have been shown to have other health benefits. They may help to reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and improve sleep quality. Some studies have also found that cherries may have a beneficial effect on exercise performance and recovery, making them a popular choice with athletes and fitness enthusiasts.

If you’re looking to incorporate more cherries into your diet, there are plenty of delicious ways to do so. You can add fresh cherries to salads, smoothies, or yogurt bowls, or use them to make jams, pies, and other baked goods. Dried cherries also make a great snack, and cherry juice can be a refreshing way to stay hydrated.

Overall, cherries are a delicious and nutritious fruit that provide a wide range of health benefits. Whether you enjoy sweet or tart varieties, there are plenty of ways to incorporate them into your diet and take advantage of their antioxidant properties.

Traditional Uses Of Cherries İn Folk Medicine

Cherries are not just delicious fruits, but they also have a long history of traditional use in folk medicine. Cherries have been valued for their medicinal properties for centuries and have been used to treat a variety of ailments such as inflammation, arthritis, gout, and insomnia. Here are some of the traditional uses of cherries in folk medicine.

1. Relieving Pain and Inflammation: Cherries contain compounds called anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory effects. In traditional medicine, cherries were used to relieve pain and inflammation caused by conditions like arthritis, gout, and rheumatism.
2. Improving Sleep: Cherries are a natural source of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. Drinking cherry juice or eating cherries before bed may help improve sleep quality and duration.
3. Reducing the Risk of Cancer: Cherries contain powerful antioxidants called polyphenols, which can help protect cells from damage that can lead to cancer. In traditional medicine, cherries were used to prevent and treat cancer.

In addition to these traditional uses, modern research has also revealed other potential health benefits of cherries. Cherries have been shown to improve heart health, reduce inflammation, and lower levels of uric acid in the blood, which can help prevent gout attacks.

If you are interested in incorporating cherries into your diet, there are plenty of ways to do so. You can eat them fresh or dried as a snack, add them to smoothies or salads, or use cherry juice to make delicious cocktails or desserts. Keep in mind that cherries are high in natural sugar, so be sure to enjoy them in moderation.

• Cherry Smoothie: Blend frozen cherries with almond milk, banana, and a scoop of protein powder for a healthy and filling breakfast.
• Cherry Salsa: Combine chopped cherries, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice for a refreshing and flavorful topping for tacos or grilled meat.
• Cherry Chia Pudding: Mix chia seeds, almond milk, and honey with cherries and let sit in the refrigerator overnight for a nutritious and delicious breakfast or snack.

Overall, cherries are a versatile and nutritious fruit that have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Whether you are looking to improve sleep, reduce inflammation, or simply enjoy a tasty snack, cherries are a great choice!

The Benefits Of Sour Cherries For Overall Health

Sour cherries, also known as tart cherries, are a popular fruit that has been gaining popularity due to their numerous health benefits. These tiny, bright red fruits are packed with nutrients and offer a range of health benefits, making them an excellent addition to any diet. In this blog post, we’ll explore the various benefits of sour cherries for overall health.

Nutritional Composition of Sour Cherries

Sour cherries are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are particularly high in vitamin C, which is essential for maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails. In addition, they are rich in fiber and are low in calories, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy weight.

• Vitamin C
• Fiber
• Antioxidants
• Low in calories

The Health Benefits of Sour Cherries

Sour cherries offer a range of health benefits, including reducing inflammation, aiding in digestion, and promoting better sleep. They have also been linked to a reduced risk of chronic disease, such as heart disease and cancer. Some of their key health benefits include:

1. Reduced inflammation
2. Improved digestion
3. Promotes better sleep
4. Reduces risk of chronic disease

Ways to Incorporate Sour Cherries into Your Diet

Sour cherries are a versatile fruit that can be added to a range of dishes, such as smoothies, salads, and desserts. One of the most popular ways to consume sour cherries is by drinking tart cherry juice, which has been shown to be particularly effective in reducing inflammation and promoting better sleep.

The Benefits of Sour Cherries for Athletes

Sour cherries have been shown to be particularly beneficial for athletes, as they can help reduce muscle soreness and inflammation after a workout. Sour cherry juice in particular has been shown to be effective in reducing muscle damage and improving recovery time. This can be especially useful for athletes who are looking to improve their performance and reduce their risk of injury.

Overall, sour cherries are a delicious and nutritious fruit that offer a range of health benefits. Whether you’re an athlete looking to improve your performance or simply looking for a healthy and tasty addition to your diet, sour cherries are definitely worth incorporating into your routine.

The Impact Of Climate Change On Cherry Production

Climate change is no longer a debate. The impact of global warming is being felt all over the world, and one of its effects is on the production of cherries. Cherries are a delicious fruit, enjoyed by many around the world. They are produced in over 85 countries, and the changing climate is affecting how and where they are grown. Cherries are particularly vulnerable to climate change, and this is having an impact on producers and consumers alike.

The cherry trees that produce the fruit require specific conditions in order to thrive. They need a specific number of chilling hours, which is the number of hours the temperatures have remained between 32 and 45°F (0 and 7°C) during the winter months. This helps to reset the tree’s biological clock and ensure that it blooms properly in the next season. Climate change is disrupting this cycle, leading to warmer winters and threatening the viability of cherry production.

• Cherry production is a multi-billion-dollar industry, and the impact of climate change is having a significant impact on this sector. For example, in California, one of the largest producers of cherries in the US, warmer winters and unpredictable weather patterns are affecting the quality of the fruit. This is leading to higher prices for consumers and lower yields for producers.
• Warmer temperatures are also leading to earlier blooming of cherry trees. This can be good or bad, depending on the timing of spring frosts. If cherry trees bloom too early and frost hits, the trees can be damaged, and the fruit can be lost.

Cherries are also grown in areas that are experiencing drought conditions due to climate change. This is a problem because cherry trees require a lot of water to produce high-quality fruit. Drought conditions can lead to smaller fruit, lower yields, and even tree death. In some areas of the world, cherry production has been completely abandoned due to water scarcity.

What does this mean for consumers? In the short term, it could mean higher prices and lower quality fruit. In the long term, it could mean the complete loss of cherry production in some areas of the world. It also means that people who rely on cherries for their livelihoods are facing an uncertain future. It’s clear that both short-term and long-term solutions are needed in order to help the cherry industry adapt to the changing climate.

In conclusion, the impact of climate change on cherry production is significant, and it is affecting producers, consumers, and the environment. It’s important to recognize the role that we all play in addressing this issue, and to work together to find solutions that will help to ensure the future of this important industry.

Future Directions İn Cherry Research And Innovation

Cherries are one of the most beloved fruits around the world. They are known for their sweet and tart flavor, and their bright red color is a feast for the eyes. They are consumed in large quantities, especially during the summer months, due to their refreshing properties. However, there is much more to cherries than just their taste. Researchers are exploring the potential health benefits of cherries and their derivatives. Future directions in cherry research and innovation are promising for the health industry.

One area of focus for cherry research is the impact of cherries on the immune system. Cherries contain numerous beneficial compounds such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These compounds have significant potential to boost the immune system and help fight off infections. Researchers are exploring the potential of cherry extracts as an immune enhancer and are performing clinical trials to validate their effectiveness.

• The Role of Cherries In Preventing Chronic Diseases
• The Health Benefits of Eating Cherries
• The Nutritional Composition of Cherries
• The Antioxidant Properties of Cherries

In addition, researchers are also examining the anti-inflammatory properties of cherries. Chronic inflammation is associated with many health problems such as heart disease, arthritis, and even cancer. Cherries contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can reduce inflammation in the body. Scientists are studying the effectiveness of cherry extracts in treating inflammation-related diseases and the potential to develop anti-inflammatory drugs based on these compounds.

Another area researchers are exploring is the production of new cherry-based products. One possible direction is the creation of functional foods that provide specific health benefits beyond basic nutrition. Cherry juice, for example, could be enriched with probiotics to create a probiotic drink that promotes digestive health. Cherry pulp could be processed and encapsulated to create a supplement that supports heart health.

In conclusion, future directions in cherry research and innovation are promising for the health industry. Cherries are not just delicious but are also an excellent source of beneficial compounds. Researchers are exploring the potential health benefits and developing new cherry-based products. These efforts could produce functional foods and supplements that will help people maintain their health and wellbeing.