The Side Effects of Cherries

Unless you’re allergic to cherries, these fruits are unlikely to cause serious side effects. However, eating cherries in excess or as part of a very high-fiber diet may lead to unpleasant effects. To avoid these potential side effects and ensure all of your daily nutrient needs are met, eat cherries and other fruits in recommended portions.

Fiber-Related Side Effects

Cherries are somewhat high in fiber, containing about 3 grams of fiber in each 1-cup portion. While this amount of fiber is unlikely to cause side effects, if you eat cherries as part of a very high-fiber diet you may experience intestinal gas, abdominal cramps or bloating, especially if you drastically increase your fiber intake over a short period of time, notes MedlinePlus. High-fiber diets contain about 25 to 30 grams of fiber daily, notes the University of California San Francisco Medical Center. Other fiber-rich foods include other types of fruit, vegetables, whole-grains, nuts, seeds and legumes.

Nutrient Deficiencies

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Although cherries are packed with nutrients, eating them in excess can cause nutrient deficiencies if you’re eating cherries in place of other essential nutrients. While cherries are rich carbohydrates, including natural sugars, fiber, vitamin C and potassium, they lack sufficient amounts of other vitamins and minerals, dietary protein and heart-healthy monounsaturated fat. However, eating cherries in recommended portions as part of a well-balanced meal plan likely won’t lead to nutrient deficiencies.

Allergic Reactions

If you have an allergy to cherries, eating them may cause unpleasant -- even dangerous -- side effects. The American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology notes that an individual with a cherry allergy had sensations of her throat closing, shortness of breath and hives. If you experience any of these symptoms after eating cherries, avoid them in your diet and see your health care provider. If you do have a cherry allergy, you may also have allergies to other fruits.

Recommended Portions

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Unless you’re allergic to cherries, eating them in recommended portions as part of a well-balanced diet will help you avoid potential side effects from excessive cherry consumption and nutrient deficiencies. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2010 suggests eating 1.5 cups from the fruit group -- including cherries -- daily when eating 1,600 calories per day, 2 cups of fruit when consuming 2,000 calories daily and 2.5 cups from the fruit group each day when following a 2,800-calorie meal plan.