Apples are among the most frequently consumed fruits with high rich sources of fiber, polyphenol [4] and phytochemicals, chemical compounds produced by plants like quercetin, atechin, phloridzin and chlorogenic acid, all of which are strong antioxidants to help fight pathogens. [1]
Several studies compiled by Boyer & Liu have shown a link between consuming apples and a decrease risk in cancer, by and large lung cancer. [1]
Moreover, due to its principal mediators like polyphenols and fiber, this fruit has also demonstrated to have preventative health effects against cardiovascular disease [4], a chronic and common disease that kills one person every 37 seconds. [2]
Here is an in vivo animal study which suggested apples play a protective role against intestinal inflammation. [5]
So, if you are someone experiencing inflammation have in mind that perhaps adding some apples into your daily nutrition may help reduce this. (Disclaimer:please always consult with your doctor.)
Again, because of its high anti-inflammatory properties this high in rich sources fruit can also be beneficial in improving and preventing asthma, as asthma is a chronic inflammatory lung disease. [3] The antioxidants can reduce airway inflammation by protecting it from oxidants. [3]
Additionally, you can enjoy sources of vitamin C & E, potassium and magnesium through this juicy fruit.[4]
How to enjoy them:
Bake them with some spices (Cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg etc.)
Chop and add to your salads.
Blend them into your smoothies.
Mix them into your grain bowls.
Add into your pancake batter
The most common, apple sticks with almond and peanut butter
Bake a pie
Make your own home-made apple sauce
Whip an apple mock cocktail
And the list goes on…
References
1. Boyer J, Liu RH. Apple phytochemicals and their health benefits. Nutr J. 2004;3:5. Published 2004 May 12. doi:10.1186/1475-2891-3-5
2. https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/facts.htm
3. Hosseini B, Berthon BS, Wark P, Wood LG. Effects of Fruit and Vegetable Consumption on Risk of Asthma, Wheezing and Immune Responses: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Nutrients. 2017;9(4):341. Published 2017 Mar 29. doi:10.3390/nu9040341
4. Koutsos A, Tuohy KM, Lovegrove JA. Apples and cardiovascular health--is the gut microbiota a core consideration?. Nutrients. 2015;7(6):3959-3998. Published 2015 May 26. doi:10.3390/nu7063959
5. Zielinska D, Laparra-Llopis JM, Zielinski H, Szawara-Nowak D, Giménez-Bastida JA. Role of Apple Phytochemicals, Phloretin and Phloridzin, in Modulating Processes Related to Intestinal Inflammation. Nutrients. 2019;11(5):1173. Published 2019 May 25. doi:10.3390/nu11051173
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