Montmorency: The Antioxidant Berry — Anthocyanins, Polyphenols, Daily Use

Montmorency tart cherries have a growing body of research supporting their role in exercise recovery and healthy ageing. Our Montmorency supplement combines a 2250mg equivalent of tart cherry extract with beetroot, turmeric, black pepper and vitamin B6 — a formula designed to support circulation and normal energy metabolism. Here’s what the science says and how to use it.

What is Montmorency Tart Cherry?

Montmorency (Prunus cerasus var. Montmorency) is a variety of sour cherry grown predominantly in North America. It has a distinctive tart flavour and is one of the most studied cherry cultivars in sports nutrition and gerontology research. The fruit is rich in anthocyanins — particularly cyanidin-3-glucoside and cyanidin-3-rutinoside — which are thought to contribute to its biological activity. Unlike sweet cherries, Montmorency cherries have a higher concentration of these polyphenols and a lower sugar content.

In clinical studies, Montmorency cherry juice and concentrates have been investigated for their effects on markers of oxidative stress, inflammation and muscle soreness after exercise. A 2016 meta-analysis in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition concluded that tart cherry supplementation can reduce muscle soreness and speed up strength recovery after strenuous exercise (PubMed: 27146251).

Montmorency ingredients

Each capsule of our Montmorency supplement provides:

• Vitamin B6 — 2mg (142% NRV)
• Beetroot extract — 2250mg equivalent
• Montmorency Tart Cherry Fruit extract — 2250mg equivalent
• Turmeric Root extract — 50mg
• Black Pepper — 5mg

Other ingredients: Stoneground Brown Rice Flour, Capsule Shell (HPMC).

This formula is free from gluten, dairy and soya. Suitable for vegetarians and vegans, and Kosher and Halal approved.

How the formula was designed

The rationale behind this formula is to combine ingredients that may support circulation and recovery through complementary mechanisms. The 2250mg equivalent of Montmorency cherry provides a clinically relevant dose of anthocyanins. Beetroot at 2250mg equivalent supplies dietary nitrates, which are converted to nitric oxide in the body — a molecule that supports blood vessel dilation and oxygen delivery to muscles. Turmeric root extract (50mg) adds curcuminoids, which have been studied for their role in modulating inflammatory pathways. Black pepper (5mg) contains piperine, a compound that may enhance the absorption of curcumin. Vitamin B6 is included because it contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue (EU Register of Health Claims).

The science — what's well-supported

Montmorency cherry and exercise recovery

A 2010 randomised controlled trial published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that tart cherry juice reduced markers of muscle damage and inflammation after a marathon (PubMed: 20511642). A later systematic review and meta-analysis (2016) confirmed that tart cherry supplementation significantly decreases muscle soreness and accelerates strength recovery (PubMed: 27146251). The typical dose used in these studies is equivalent to 200–300mg of anthocyanins per day, which is provided by our 2250mg cherry extract.

Beetroot and nitric oxide

Beetroot is a rich source of dietary nitrate. A 2013 meta-analysis in the Journal of Applied Physiology showed that nitrate supplementation can improve exercise performance, particularly during high-intensity, intermittent efforts (PubMed: 23493304). The nitric oxide pathway is also implicated in healthy blood pressure regulation, though this is not an authorised health claim for beetroot under EU regulation.

Vitamin B6 and energy metabolism

Vitamin B6 has an authorised health claim under EU Regulation 1924/2006: “Vitamin B6 contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism” and “Vitamin B6 contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.” The 2mg dose in this product provides 142% of the Nutrient Reference Value, which is well within safe upper limits (the UK’s upper tolerable intake is 10mg per day).

Turmeric and black pepper

Turmeric has been used traditionally in Ayurvedic medicine for its role in joint health and general well-being. The EU Traditional Herbal Medicinal Products Directive permits claims for “traditional use” for turmeric in the relief of minor joint discomfort. Black pepper (piperine) has been shown in a 1998 study to increase the bioavailability of curcumin by up to 2000% (PubMed: 9619120). However, the dose of turmeric in this formula (50mg) is lower than that used in many clinical trials, which typically use 500–1000mg of curcumin extract. This product is not intended to treat or prevent any disease.

How to take it

Take 1 capsule, 1 to 3 times per day, preferably with food. Start with 1 capsule daily and increase gradually if needed. The higher end of the dose (3 capsules) provides a total of 6750mg cherry equivalent and 6750mg beetroot equivalent, which aligns with doses used in some exercise recovery studies.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place, out of reach of children. Do not use if the seal is damaged. Best before date printed on the base of the pot.

Allergen and dietary information

• Suitable for vegetarians and vegans
• Kosher approved
• Halal approved
• Free from gluten, dairy, soya and artificial additives
• Capsule shell is HPMC (cellulose-based)

Note: Beetroot may cause urine to turn a pinkish colour. This is harmless and temporary.

Who should be cautious

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication (especially blood pressure medication or blood thinners), or have a medical condition (such as kidney stones, due to the oxalate content of beetroot), consult a healthcare professional before use. Do not exceed the recommended dose. This product is not suitable for children without medical advice.

What pairs well with Montmorency

For a broader approach to antioxidant support and circulation, consider combining Montmorency with other berry-based supplements:

• Acai Berry Capsules — rich in anthocyanins and ellagic acid, traditionally used for general vitality. Read our acai guide.
• Bilberry Multi — contains anthocyanosides that have been studied for eye health and circulation. Read our bilberry guide.
• Cranberry Multi — traditionally used for urinary tract health. Read our cranberry guide.

You can also explore our bundles for combined savings.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Montmorency if I am on blood pressure medication?

Beetroot can lower blood pressure due to its nitrate content. If you are on antihypertensive medication, consult your doctor before use, as it may have an additive effect.

Will this supplement make my urine pink?

Yes, the beetroot extract may cause a harmless pink or red colouration of urine. This is called beeturia and is not a cause for concern.

How long does it take to see results?

For exercise recovery, some studies report benefits after 7–10 days of daily supplementation. For general well-being, individual responses vary. Consistency is key.

Can I take this with other supplements?

Yes, Montmorency can be taken alongside other berry extracts or vitamin supplements. However, avoid taking it with high-dose curcumin supplements unless advised by a practitioner, as the turmeric content is modest.

Is this suitable for athletes?

Yes, the ingredients are non-doping and have been studied in athletic populations. The combination of cherry and beetroot may support recovery and performance. Always check with your governing body if you are subject to anti-doping rules.

What is the shelf life?

The best before date is printed on the base of the pot. Typically, this product has a shelf life of 24 months from manufacture when stored in a cool, dry place.

Why Vitadefence

Vitadefence is a UK-based brand committed to premium plant-based supplements. Our Montmorency formula is manufactured in GMP-certified facilities in the UK. Every batch is independently tested for purity and potency. We provide transparent labelling with no hidden fillers or artificial additives. Our products are suitable for vegetarians and vegans, and we offer free shipping on orders over £30 within the UK. See what our customers say or check our shipping policy.

Bottom line

Montmorency tart cherry is one of the most researched natural ingredients for exercise recovery, with a solid evidence base from randomised controlled trials. Combined with beetroot, turmeric, black pepper and vitamin B6, this formula offers a practical way to support circulation and energy metabolism. Use it as part of a balanced diet and active lifestyle. Buy Montmorency from Vitadefence today.

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The product is a food supplement and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting a new supplement regimen, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition. Information is based on the EU Register of Nutrition and Health Claims and published scientific literature as of 2025.