We’ve all heard the old adage, ‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away’. Some of us have even heard about apple diets of many descriptions and methods. How true are these sayings and methods? Are apples really the super-food they’re made out to be or are they just another fruit that really holds nothing special for us?
In this article I’ll go over the health benefits of apples and discuss the nutrition value they hold. To discover for real how much these red (or green) fruit can do for you and your body and whether they may help to drop some pounds, read this article through…
Health Benefits And Nutrition Facts
Apples contain hordes of valuable nutrients like Vitamins A, B, C and D. They are also rich in minerals like potassium, calcium and phosphorus. Add to that the fact that they are crunchy and delicious, and you have all the right reasons to make apples your best friends.
Apples contain flavonoids and polyphenols which are powerful antioxidants. According to studies, taking in a mere 100g of apple produces the antioxidant effect of taking in 1,500 mg of Vitamin C. The antioxidant activity of apples is strong enough to help prevent a number of cancers like lung and bladder cancers.
Apple contains generous amounts of potassium which helps to keep blood pressure down and is beneficial to the health of the heart.
The vitamins in apples keep the immune system strong safeguard the body from a host of disease. These vitamins also boost blood circulation within the body.
Apples are a great way of keeping the heart healthy. The skin of apples is rich in antioxidants which are beneficial for the health of the heart. A medium sized apple supplies almost 15% of the fiber requirement of the body. The fiber contained in apple includes soluble as well as insoluble fiber. This keeps cholesterol levels down and safeguards the heart. The flavonoids in apples also play a vital role in maintaining good cardiovascular health because these destroy free radicals, fight inflammation and prevent the clumping of platelets. Flavonoids also prevent the formation of excessive fat cells in the liver. Thus, they alleviate the risk of developing heart diseases in a significant way.
The flavonoids in apples alleviate lung problems. Thus, regular intake of apples may help patients suffering from COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), where the patient is unable to get enough oxygen into their lungs.
Apples are good for digestion. Our ancestors knew this and recommended the intake of apple for digestive problems. Subsequently, science has shown that malic and tartaric acids found in apple have a soothing effect on the liver and the stomach.
Apple skin is rich in pectin and fiber – both of which help flush out toxic substances from the stomach.
It is believed that the high amounts of antioxidants in apples help prevent age related problems like memory loss. According to recent research, apples may even keep Alzheimer’s disease at bay.
Lastly, apples can help you look more attractive as it prevents wrinkles and skin damage from sun exposure.
How to eat Apples
Apples make a wonderful midday snack and may be eaten raw. However, if the apple is not grown organically, its skin may contain pesticides. Peeling the skin robs the apple of many vital nutrients and flavonoids, so washing it carefully may be better than simply peeling it.
Apples may be added to salads and baked goods. Apple pies are a universal favorite here’s a great recipe for one. Sliced apple with cheese is a wonderful dessert. Apple tarts are also a delicious way of taking in apples.
During Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year, you dip slices of apples in honey. This symbolizes your wish for a sweet new year. However, this can also serve as an excellent snack. Use Raw Honey and you can enjoy a sweet snack which is much healthier than candy bars.
In conclusion
Apples offer a host of valuable health benefits. They are delicious to eat and are available throughout the year. So, if you want to stay fit, healthy and attractive, you know what to do – eat an apple a day!
