Apples are one of the most consumed fruits around the world and there are a number of health benefits that come along with consuming apples. Most people have heard the Welsh proverb; “An apple a day keeps the doctor away”. But, should you really be eating an apple a day? What are these benefits of apples? Read on to learn just what makes apples so healthy for you.

Why Are Apples So Healthy?

Apples are packed with plenty of vitamins, nutrients, minerals and organic compounds which are all what make them so healthy. They contain vitamin C, K, B6 and riboflavin and minerals like potassium, manganese, magnesium and copper. The organic compound contains phytonutrients and flavonoids like quercetin, phloridzin, and epicatechin. These combined nutrients, minerals and compounds reward you with the following healthy benefits.
1

Good for digestion

Apples are a great source of fiber which is beneficial for digestion. Eating an apple a day can help prevent constipation as well as other stomach disorder while stimulating the muscles around the digestive tract to help move the food along the digestive tract. The fiber also releases gastric and digestive juice which ensure the proper nutrients are absorbed and helps scrape excess cholesterol from the arteries and veins.

2

Helps prevent cancers

The high phytonutrient compounds give apples an anti-cancer effect. Apples have been shown to help reduce lung cancer, breast cancer, and colon cancer and reduce or slow down the spread of the cancer cells. This is especially due to the kaempferol and quercetin nutrients in it.

3

Increases the iron in the body

Apples contain a high amount of iron, making them highly beneficial for those who suffer from anemia. Iron is necessary to help increase the red blood cells in the body. The benefits of apples include increasing the red blood cells in the body, which not only helps fight off the effects of anemia but ensures enough oxygen reaches the vital organs in the body and helps them function properly.

4

Helps manage blood sugar

Those who have diabetes will benefit greatly from the polyphenols apples contain. The polyphenols reduce the intake of carbohydrates in the body which helps regulate blood sugar levels. These polyphenols also reduce the glucose absorption in the body while stimulating the release of insulin which the body needs to keep the blood sugar levels balanced.

5

Good for oral health

Apples contain antibacterial properties, making them a great fruit to consume to help cleanse the teeth and gums. When combined with the fiber apples contain, you can reduce the appearance of cavities. Eating an apple will also increase the secretion of saliva which prevents bacteria build up.

6

Neurological benefits

The phytonutrient content in apples can benefit those at risk of Alzheimer and Parkinson's disease. The antioxidants in apples can help reduce the brain's degeneration and rid the body of free radicals that is associated with Alzheimer disease. Apples also contain acetylcholine which increases concentration and problem-solving ability. They also have a positive effect on memory and reduce the breakdown of dopamine-producing nerve cells.

7

Beneficial for respiratory health

As one of the benefits of apples, they contain anti-inflammatory components which are highly beneficial for those with respiratory problems like asthma. Since most respiratory problems arise from inflammation to the membranes and cells in the respiratory system, apples can help reduce the symptoms of most respiratory conditions.

8

Healthy heart

There are many reasons why apples are good for the heart. An apple a day can help lower cholesterol levels because the antioxidants in apples reduce the oxidation of lipid peroxidation or fats that form between the blood vessels. Quercetin, a flavonoid found in the apple's skin, reduces inflammation in the blood vessels which can cause heart complication.

9

Fights off rheumatism

The kaempferol, myricetin and quercetin flavonoids in apples reduce inflammation throughout the body. Those who suffer from arthritis or other inflammatory condition will find it highly beneficial to consume apples on a regular basis.

10

Eye health

The combination of flavonoids and antioxidants found in apples can keep the eyes strong and healthy, which will also improve various eye problems. Eating apples can help those who suffer from night blindness and can also prevent some eye condition like cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration because the components in apples fight off free radicals that impair vision.

11

Skin health

When used as a paste with honey or milk, apples can keep your skin looking younger. The powerful antioxidants in the flesh and skin of the apples can help reduce premature aging, wrinkles and age spots. Apples paste used on the skin can also increase blood circulation to the skin while fighting off free radicals that age the look and feel of the skin.

12

Gives your immune system a boost

The high amounts of quercetin in red apples can give you immune system a boost which is just one of the many benefits of apples. Red apples are especially beneficial for the immune system. Those who deal with a significant amount of stress on a regular basis will find that they can help ward off some of the negative effects stress can have on the immune system when they consume more apples

13

What to Be Cautious of

  • The seeds of apples can be harmful and even vital because they contain cyanide.

  • While apples can be beneficial for your teeth, they also contain a significant amount of acid. Eating more than one a day can actually cause more damage to your teeth.

  • Don't throw out the peel. The apple peel is where most of the antioxidants and fiber are contained.

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