Apples are packed with antioxidants and fibre that can benefit the body in many ways! Learn more about the benefits of eating apples and why they are good for you!
Eating apples have long been said to be good for your health. You have probably heard the saying “An apple a day keeps the doctor away”. But are there really any health benefits of eating apples?
Yes there are! Apples are packed with antioxidants and other nutrients that have been shown to have some remarkable health benefits.
Keep reading to learn more!
Benefits of eating apples
Can help you poop
If you suffer from constipation, it may be a good idea to eat more apples! Apples are rich in a type of fibre called pectin. Pectin is a soluble fibre that absorbs water and makes going to the toilet a lot easier. Most of the pectin is found in the skin, so don’t peel your apples if you want the effect of pectin!
May prevent cancer
Eating fruit and vegetables is linked to a reduced risk of cancer, and studies have shown that eating apples can reduce the risk of developing lung cancer. It’s hypothesised that phytochemicals found in apples such as quercetin and flavanoids have this protective effect. Animal studies have shown a protective effect of apple on breast and colon cancer.
Can reduce risk of asthma
Several studies are showing that eating apples are linked to a reduced risk of asthma and also improved lung function! A British study showed that asthma was less common among people who ate more than 2 apples a week! It’s believed that flavanoids found in apples have an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant effect which reduces the risk asthma.
Supports heart health
High blood cholesterol levels are linked to cardiovascular disease and eating apples have been shown to lower blood cholesterol. Pectin has been found to lower LDL cholesterol, which is the “bad” cholesterol. The antioxidants found in apples can protect against lipid oxidation, which protects the blood vessels and is good for heart health.
Can support a good gut health
Apples are rich in fibre, which is important for a healthy and varied gut microbiota! Pectin, the soluble fibre found in apples, is a prebiotic and feeds the bacterias in the gut and contribute to a varied gut microbiota. Also, these bacterias produce a short chained fatty acid called butyrate, which can support the immune system and boost brain function.
Verdict
You need more than an apple a day to keep the doctor away, but there are definitely benefits of eating apples regularly!
Apples are loaded with phytonutrients and antioxidants, they’re affordable and tasty! They come in their own packaging making them the perfect snack on the go.
An apple with a handful of nuts or seeds is a great snack to give you nutrients to energise you and to provide your body with plenty of goodness!
The best way to enjoy an apple is with the skin on, as most nutrients and active phytonutrients are found in the skin or next to the skin!
Here are a few recipes with apples
- Baked apples – Like individual apple crumbles! Perfect to make when cooking for many or if making dessert for two!
- Healthy Toffee Apples – Instead of being coated with hard toffee, these apples are coated with paste made of dates, vanilla and almond butter. These are way kinder to your teeth than the regular ones!
- Breakfast Quinoa Pots – Filling yogurt and quinoa pots topped with nuts and apples. Great for breakfast or for an afternoon snack.
- Celeriac and Apple Soup – Celeriac and apples are a classic combo! Here the soup is topped with roasted hazelnuts and smoked salmon!
Do you eat apples? Do you have a favourite recipes with apples? Let me know!