“An apple a day, keeps the doctor away”- Have you ever heard of this saying? Apples are more than fruits, they hold several health benefits asides from their culinary uses. Apples are the most widely consumed fruit globally, and there are over 7,000 different cultivars available. They are commonly used in recipes like pies, cookies, muffins, jam, salads, oatmeal, or smoothies. Apples are a rich source of polyphenols, which protect your cells from free radicals and help prevent chronic conditions like heart disease and cancer.
Apples are rich in fibre and antioxidants. Eating them is linked to a lower risk of many chronic conditions, including diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. Apples may also promote weight loss and improve gut and brain health. Even though more research is still needed to better understand how apples affect human health, you are on the right path when you eat this tasty, versatile, and easily accessible fruit.
The following are the health benefits of apples:
1. Apples are nutritious
Apples are a good source of fibre and vitamin C. They also contain antioxidants, like vitamin E, and polyphenols, contributing to the fruit’s numerous health benefits.
2. Apples may support weight loss
Apples are particularly filling due to their high fibre and water content. Their polyphenols may also have anti-obesity effects.
3. Apples are good for your heart
Apples promote heart health in several ways. They’re high in soluble fibre, which helps lower cholesterol. They also have polyphenols linked to lower blood pressure and stroke risk.
4. Apples are linked to lower the risk of diabetes
Eating apples is linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, potentially due to their polyphenol content.
5. Apples may promote gut health
The type of fibre found in apples improves your gut-friendly bacteria, which may be why the fruit is thought to help protect against chronic diseases.
6. Apples may help prevent cancer
Apple’s fibre and antioxidant content have been linked to a reduced risk of certain types of cancer. However, more research on humans is needed.
7. Apples help fight asthma
Apples contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help regulate immune responses and protect against asthma. However, more research, especially in humans, is needed.
8. Apples protect the brain
Quercetin in apples may protect your brain against oxidative stress. However, further research is needed to validate the effect of eating the whole fruit.