Does
an Apple a Day Keep the Doctor Away?
There is an old saying: “ An apple a day
keeps the doctor away.” It turns out this saying may have
a lot of truth to it. Fruits, especially apples, contain impressive
amounts of nutrients.
So, what makes apples so important? Let's consider some of the apple's
components and their effect on our health:
Pectin: Studies have shown
that apple pectin increases the excretion of fats and cholesterol,
which can lower the total circulating cholesterol in the blood.
Additionally, apple pectin contains insoluble fiber, which acts
a sponge for fluids, toxins, etc, helping to regulate elimination
from the colon. Additionally, pectin can help control blood sugar
and stomach acidity.
Vitamins and Minerals:
Apples are a good source of Boron, which supports strong bones
and healthy brain. Apples also contain Calcium, Vitamin A, potassium
and iron, although most minerals are found in the skin. Apples
are a good source of Vitamin C, which helps support the immune
system.
Anti-oxidants
(protect cells from damage from free radicals): Many phyto-nutrients
and vitamins act as anti-oxidants, such as Vitamin C, beta-carotene
and Vitamin E, all of which are found in apples. One of the most
prominent anti-oxidant compounds is Quercetin, which has been
shown to help reduce the risk of cancers, including lung and breast
cancer, as well as age-related health problems, such as Alzheimer's
disease.
Nature's toothbrush:
apples help clean teeth and kill bacteria in the mouth, which
not only helps prevent tooth decay, but decreases abscesses and
inflammation of the gums. Mouth abscesses and gum disease can
contribute to circulatory and heart inflammation responses and
heart disease.
Apples are a low calorie dense food, meaning they are filling, satisfying,
yet are low in calories. And, with so many varieties available,
eating an apple every day doesn't get boring.
Apples can help maintain health
So, it is easy to see why apples are considered to be so important
to our health. But, are they a miracle food? If you eat one a day,
are you never going to be sick again? While apples can help you
maintain health, they are not going to prevent all illnesses. Many
other factors contribute to maintaining health. It is important
to include other foods that provide other nutrients as well. Many
fruits are healing fruits. Bananas are abundant in potassium, which
is important for muscle and nerve functioning, as well as kidney
and blood pressure control. Berries are full of Vitamin C and anti-oxidants.
Cranberries maintain the pH of urine, helping control kidney and
bladder infections.
Why focus on apples?
If other fruits are just as important, why the saying about apples?
Because they are easy to grow, provide a variety of tastes and can
stay fresh and tasty for a long time. Some apples can be stored
in the proper conditions for almost a year and stay be sweet and
tasty.
Apples are not the only food to support health. While it is important
to eat a varied diet, apples are an easy and tasty way to get many
of the nutrients that support health. So, enjoy an apple and see
if "eating an apple a day helps you keep the doctor at bay".
|
