6 Ways Apples are Amazing for Health ( Garden of Life )

6 Ways Apples are Amazing for Health ( Garden of Life )

Almost everyone is familiar with the old proverb, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” – but not everyone really knows why! As it turns out, there are many incredible health benefits from this sometimes tangy, sometimes sweet, but always satisfyingly crunchy, fruit. Just be sure to choose organic apples to avoid pesticides and waxy residues.

Eating apples regularly can


    1. Promote heart health. Multiple studies have found that apples effectively lower LDL (bad) cholesterol while simultaneously helping eliminate excess cholesterol from the veins and arteries – thereby helping prevent cardiovascular disease. Further, just one apple a day provides antioxidants which help reduce the oxidation of fats, keeping blood vessels healthy. Even the apple skin is beneficial, full of flavonoids shown to reduce blood vessel inflammation. One long-term study found that men and women who consumed the most apples over the 28-year study period had the lowest risk for stroke.
    2. Reduce the risk of neurodegenerative disorders. Several studies have found that daily intake of apples may help protect the body’s neuron cells from oxidative, stress-induced neurotoxicity. In turn, this can help lower the risk of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s.
    3. Help cleanse teeth and gums. Eating apples can help reduce cavities, as their high fiber content helps cleanse the teeth, while their antibacterial properties help prevent bacteria and viruses from infecting the body. In addition, the stimulation of saliva also helps keep bacteria at bay in the mouth.
    4. Aid weight loss efforts. Apples pack a double-punch for supporting healthy weight management. First, an apple’s peel contains ursolic acid, which has been linked to a lower risk of obesity by boosting calorie burn, as well as increasing muscle and brown fat, according to recent studies. Further, the high fiber content in apples promotes satiety without a lot of calories, providing a healthy snack option that helps to stay full longer. Researchers found that the Granny Smith variety promoted the most good gut bacteria, known to help prevent obesity.
    5. Promote healthy digestion. High fiber content in apples provides even more benefits, aiding digestion, promoting healthy bowel movements and preventing constipation. Eating apples also stimulates the stomach to produce gastric and digestive juices, ensuring efficient nutrient absorption of all foods.
    6. Help ward off colds. A medium-sized apple provides a healthy portion of the daily recommended intake of immune system-boosting vitamin C.