Apples are one of the world's most widely cultivated tree fruit. Originating in China they've been around for two thousand years and are doing well in the United States
But how much truth is there to the old adage that "An apple a day keeps the doctor away"? Are they really that healthy? Let's take a look at this pomaceous fruit and see how they rate in promoting good health.
To begin with apples are low in calories, they contain no saturated fats or cholesterol. So that's a good thing. In addition they are rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants. That's good, too. They contain Vitamin C & beta-carotene and are a good source of the B-complex vitamins like riboflavin, thiamin, and pyridoxine (B-6). That can't hurt, either. And the also contain essential minerals like potassium, phosphorus and calcium. So far, all good.
Apples are very nutritious and with only 95 calories each, can help with weight loss while providing 4 grams of soluble fiber. It's that soluble fiber that blunts blood sugar swings and decreases the chance of diabetes and lowers high cholesterol. The antioxidants in the fiber protects the brain against Parkinson's disease, too. Studies have shown that they can also lower the risk of coronary heart disease and stroke. But perhaps most importantly, apples have been shown to curb certain cancers, among them some of the most insidious; pancreatic, liver, colon, breast, lung and prostate.
Some additional benefits of apple consumption includes being an exercise extender. Eaten before a work out an apple's antioxidant, quercetin, makes more oxygen available to the lungs, thus permitting an individual to exercise longer. And finally, biting and chewing on an apple stimulates the production of saliva reducing tooth decay by lowering levels of bacteria in the mouth. They also are known to whiten teeth.
For more information on the benefits of apples, click on the Mother Nature Network.
Have you had your apple today?
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