11 Health benefits of eating apples – according to science
07/04/2020 / By Joanne Washburn / Comments
11 Health benefits of eating apples – according to science

As part of a smart diet, apples can help protect against a host of serious conditions including heart disease and cancer. Studies found that apples are rich in essential nutrients, potent plant compounds and millions of beneficial bacteria, so it’s no surprise that the iconic and ubiquitous fruit offers incredible health benefits.

Health benefits of apples

Apples are credited with delivering an amazing number of health benefits. Here are some of them:

Boost immune functions

Red apples are a great source of the plant compound called quercetin. Besides its role in fighting inflammation and harmful free radicals, studies also found that quercetin has natural antihistamine effects. It has also been found to combat pathogens that can lead to infection and disease.

Support heart health

Multiple studies found that the apple’s high fiber content helps protect the arteries from cholesterol buildup. If left unchecked, cholesterol buildup can cause arteries to stiffen and impair proper blood circulation. This raises the risk of heart disease, heart attack and stroke.

Boost brain health

The fruit’s rich antioxidant content can also be beneficial for people at an increased risk of age-related cognitive decline and other degenerative neurological disorders. This is because the antioxidants work to suppress inflammation in the brain that can kill brain cells and damage neural tissues.

Fight cancer cells

Animal studies found that apples can fight cancer cells of certain cancers including those of the skin, the breasts and the colon. The regular consumption of apples can reduce the risk of lung cancer as well. Experts speculate that the apple’s apparent cancer-fighting abilities might be due to the presence of potent plant chemicals in the peel.

Regulate blood sugar

Fructose, a natural sugar found in apples and other fruits, helps protect against sudden spikes in blood sugar. The fiber in apples also inhibit the absorption of too much glucose in the gut.

Support oral health

Eating apples can also dislodge dental plaque, a mass of bacteria on surfaces inside the mouth. The fruit also stimulates the secretion of saliva that can help inhibit the proliferation of bacteria.

Promote gut health

Eating apples also enables smoother digestion. Pectin, a unique soluble fiber found in fruits, softens stool and helps push it through the gastrointestinal tract. The malic acid in apples also aid in digestion and nutrient absorption. In addition, recent studies found that apples contain millions of beneficial bacteria that help maintain optimal gut health.

Prevent gallstones

The regular consumption of apples can also protect against gallstones because of the fruit’s effects on cholesterol. Too much cholesterol can lead to clumps of solidifed bile, the fluid stored in the gallbladder that aids the digestion of lipids.

Aid in weight management

Pectin has also been found to inhibit the absorption of fats in the gut that can lead to abdominal fat. Like other fibers, pectin also helps sustain feelings of fullness for longer periods. This, in turn, discourages overeating, snacking in between meals or giving in to cravings. All in all, pectin assists in weight loss and helps in keeping it off.

Detoxify

Pectin also supports the liver’s natural detoxification process. It helps flush out toxins, waste products, metals and other impurities that can affect the organs and leech into the bloodstream.

Improve vision

Apples contain another group of antioxidants called flavonoids. These antioxidants reduce the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration that can lead to vision loss.

Apples are considered one of the most nutritious fruits and superfoods out there because of their incredible nutrition profile. Start eating more apples to reap their wealth of nutrients, antioxidants and more.

Read more articles about apples and other nutrient-dense fruits at Fruits.news.

Sources:

BestHealthMag.ca

TheAtlantic.com

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