Monthly Archives: August 2022

4 Health Benefits of Cherries That Will Make You Chipper 

Is there anything more inviting, more pleasing to the eyes than a striking bowl of cherries? 

Before you can give a smart aleck answer, I’ll beat you to it: Yes, two bowls of cherries. 

Take that! 

Cherries are still in season, and they not only go down easily, they also are loaded with health benefits. Grab a handful or two and read on. 

1. Cherries Are a Natural Source of Antioxidants

Usually we make you wait for antioxidants to make an appearance in our blogs, but we’re going to lead with our old friends. 

Cherries are a natural source of antioxidants, those trusted compounds that work to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause cell damage and are linked to the development of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Consuming foods rich in antioxidants, like cherries, can help reduce the risk of these diseases.

Not only that, cherries are also a good source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. 

2. Cherries Can Help Improve Sleep Quality

If you’re looking for a natural way to improve your sleep quality, consider reaching for a bowl of cherries. 

According to The Sleep Foundation, cherries contain compounds that can help promote better sleep. One study found that participants who drank cherry juice for two weeks reported significantly higher levels of melatonin, a hormone that plays an important role in regulating the body’s sleep-wake cycle. 

Maybe cherries should be called cherriezzzzz. Get it?

3. Cherries Can Reduce Inflammation and Pain

Cherries can also be a remedy for pain and inflammation. 

Cherries contain anthocyanin, another compound with anti-inflammatory properties. In some instances, cherries have relieved symptoms related to arthritis and gout. In addition, the antioxidants found in cherries may reduce pain and swelling. 

4. Cherries Are a Good Source of Fiber

Cherries aren’t just a good source of fiber; they’re one of the best among foods. 

In fact, just a handful of cherries contains more fiber than a whole bowl of bran flakes. And unlike bran flakes, cherries are actually delicious. 

Why is fiber important? 

It’s essential for proper digestion, and it helps reduce cholesterol levels and control blood sugar levels. Fiber also makes you feel fuller longer, so it can help with weight loss. 

Oh, and one more thing: 🍒SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT🍒  Check out our Classic Pairings Wine Gift Basket, featuring a lot of goodies, including chocolate covered cherries! 

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks is a woman owned gift basket company, located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients.

Contact us today! Please subscribe to our blog post and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

5 Last Minute Summer Activities That Don’t Require Planning

The last few weeks of summer always seem to fly by, and before you know it, school is starting, and Labor Day is here. 

If this is a reality check gut-punch, then sorry. But…summer isn’t over until we say it is, and there are still some last minute activities to enjoy with your friends or family!

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and have some fun.

1. Have a picnic in your backyard

Don’t want to take your picnic on the road? Hello, you can always simply step outside and set up shop in your backyard.

Spread a blanket on the grass and enjoy the warm sunshine while you feast on your favorite picnic foods. If you’re feeling ambitious, fire up the grill. Most importantly, don’t forget the essential ingredient for any picnic: good company. 

2. Go for a swim at the nearest pool or beach

As the dog days of summer drag on, it can be hard to find ways to escape the heat. 

One of the best ways to stay cool is by taking a dip in the nearest pool or beach. The water is refreshing, and the act of swimming itself can help to raise your body temperature. Plus, there’s nothing quite like floating on your back and looking up at the clouds on a hot summer day. Just don’t be silly and not apply sunscreen. 

3. Watch a movie outside under the stars

There’s something special about watching a movie outdoors. 

Maybe it’s the feeling of being one with nature, or maybe it’s the sense of community that comes from sharing the experience with other people. Or perhaps it’s not being disrupted by the noise of movie theater chairs folding up and down. 

Of course, there are a few things to keep in mind: first, make sure you choose a spot where you’ll have plenty of room to spread out a blanket or set up chairs. You’ll also want to be sure there’s no light pollution, so you can get the full effect of the stars shining overhead. And definitely to pack some snacks. Duh. 

4. Visit a nearby amusement park or zoo

Great America, Brookfield Zoo, Lincoln Park Zoo, Cosley Zoo, Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo. 

If you’re looking for a day of thrills (and whiplash of the best kind), there’s no better place to visit than your nearest amusement park. From heart-stopping roller coasters to more placid Ferris wheels, you have your pick. 

And if thrills aren’t your thing, don’t worry—there are plenty of other attractions to keep you entertained. If you’re more of a naturalist, head to your local zoo. There, you’ll be able to see all sorts of exotic animals up close and learn about their habitats. You might even get to feed some of them, though I’d be leery of the viper pit. 

5. Make ice cream sundaes and eat them on your porch

Sundaes on the porch? Sounds dreamy. 

First, you’ll need some essential sundae-making supplies: ice cream, of course, plus your favorite toppings and a few bowls and spoons. Once you have everything gathered, head outside and find a comfortable spot on the porch. Then, it’s time to start building your sundaes. Start with a scoop of ice cream, then add a drizzle of chocolate sauce or caramel. Top it off with a sprinkle of nuts or some whipped cream, and voila! You’ve just created a delicious work of art. 

Summer’s not quite out of reach. Seize the final days. 

Wait, wait, wait. This would not be a proper blog post without a 🚨SHAMELESS PLUG ALERT🚨 To go along with that trip to the zoo, we recommend surprising someone with

our Flamboyance of Flamingos Gift Basket.

Enjoy these activities! 

About BasketWorks

BasketWorks/79Gifts is a woman owned gift basket company, located in the north suburbs of Chicago (specifically Northbrook, IL) since 1997. We are proud to offer a variety of gifts and gift baskets appropriate for all occasions. Each of our packages is built to order, allowing for customization at no additional cost to our clients. Contact us today!

Please subscribe to our blog post and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.