The adage may have a kernel of truth. While an apple a day certainly doesn’t keep the doctor away, it may help keep you healthy. This extremely popular fruit offers a lot of potential benefits.
High in Fiber
The average apple contains about 4.4 grams of fiber. This slows the digestion of its 25 grams of carbs tremendously. So, you’ll be able to enjoy something sweet without it impacting too much your blood sugar levels. Fiber also helps with digestion and makes you feel fuller after eating.
Reduced Lung Cancer Risk
Research has found that this fruit is associated with a reduced risk of developing lung cancer. Women who eat just one serving a day of apples or pears were less likely to develop this disease. Another study found that people who ate the highest quantity of onions, apples, and white grapefruit compared to those who ate the least had a 50% lower chance of getting lung cancer.
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Reduced Cardiovascular Disease
Apples also contain a lot of flavonoids, which have antioxidant properties. Eating large quantities of these compounds found in broccoli, onions, tea, and apples appears to lower the chances of developing cardiovascular disease. Flavonoids were also found to be correlated with a reduced risk of death from heart disease.
Improves Lung Function
Eating apples has also been inversely correlated with asthma in people. Those who ate at least two servings of apples a week gained the most benefit. Plus, it’s been found to promote good lung health. Older men who ate five or more apples a week had the highest forced expiratory volume, meaning they were able to expel air strongly and in larger volume.
Improves Insulin Sensitivity
There has also been research showing that women who ate more of this fruit had reduced insulin resistance. This may help with diabetes control and even weight loss. It’s believed that the polyphenols, or micronutrients with antioxidant properties, stimulate the pancreas to release insulin and encourages cells to respond to this hormone.
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[expand title=”References“]
Do Apples Affect Diabetes and Blood Sugar Levels? URL Link. Accessed August 6th, 2017.
Apple Phytochemicals and Their Health Benefits. URL Link. Accessed August 6th, 2017.
22 High-Fiber Foods You Should Eat. URL Link. Accessed August 6th, 2017.
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