Researchers from Michigan State University have discovered that chemicals found in cherries may help fight diabetes.

Published in the issue of the American Chemical Society's Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, a naturally occurring chemical found in cherries called anthocyanins could help lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.

Lab tests using animal pancreatic cells showed that anthocyanins increased insulin production by 50 percent. Anthocyanins are a class of plant pigments responsible for the color of many fruits, including cherries.

Anthocyanins also are potent antioxidants and are responsible for the color of many fruits, including cherries.

These chemicals have been found to offer protection against heart disease and cancer.

The researchers said the compounds show promise for both prevention of type 2 or non-insulin-dependent diabetes, the most common type, and for helping control glucose levels in those who already have diabetes.