“An apple a day keeps the doctor away” is a timeless classic which we have all heard. But how true is it? Should you really be eating an apple a day, and what kind of health benefits can an apple really provide? Here are three very good reasons to eat apples.
1. Apples have been shown to prevent cancer. Apples contain Quercetin which is a flavonoid that has been found to help prevent the growth of prostate cancer cells . They also have phytonutrients in the skin which can inhibit the growth of colon cancer cells by up to 43%. If this isn’t enough they may prevent lung cancer by up to 50% if eaten daily. Furthermore, they have an inhibitory effect on the development of bladder cancers especially in people who smoke.
2. They may improve lung function. If you are a smoker, listen up. Eating apples regularly can actually improve lung function and reduce the risk of developing respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The powerful nature of this fruit is due to their high level of antioxidants.
3. They can help lower bad cholesterol levels. Apples contain pectin which is a soluble fibre which plays a role in reducing harmful cholesterol levels. In fact, apple juice has been found to inhibit the oxidation of a harmful form of cholesterol (LDL, or low-density lipoprotein).
Along with these benefits, apples will also serve to provide your body with many minerals and nutrients. Eating an apple before each meal is a great idea, as it fills you up with fibre, vitamins , and antioxidants and will ensure that you eat less of your meal. They are also very low in calories and have no fat. Besides therapeutic benefits, apples are also found to play a role in inhibiting ageing-related problems, preventing wrinkles and promoting hair growth.
