top of page
Writer's pictureScarleth Castro, MSc.| Coach

A Peek inside an Apple


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

10 views0 comments

Kommentare


bottom of page