DavidWolfe.comThere is plenty of truth to the saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Apples are loaded with antioxidants that that help keep the body healthy. They are also one of the best high-fiber foods you can eat. Studies have linked apples to a reduced risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, asthma, Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes. Apple health benefits include reduced inflammation, improved heart health and healthy weight management.
Apple Health Benefits
1. Provides the Body with Antioxidants
Many apple health benefits stem from the antioxidants they contain. Research has shown that apples contain quercetin, catechin, phloridzin and chlorogenic acid. These compounds work to combat free radicals in the body that cause damage.
2. Prevents Inflammation
Apple health benefits include reduced inflammation levels. The phytochemicals that apples contain are known to help reduce the risk of many chronic diseases caused by inflammation. High-antioxidant foods have been linked to improved weight management, bone health and diabetes management. (1)
3. Fights Heart Disease
A diet high in fruits and vegetables, including apples, can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Pectin, a type of fiber found in apples, can help naturally lower cholesterol levels. (2)
4. Provides the Body with Fiber
Apple health benefits include a healthy dose of fiber. Pectin is a soluble fiber that binds to fatty substances in the digestive tract, such as cholesterol and toxins, to promote their elimination.
5. Improves Digestive Health
A high-fiber diet can help fight digestive problems. Apple health benefits include better digestive health in the colon, stomach and bladder. The phytonutrients in apples help protect the digestive organs from damage caused by oxidative stress.
6. Provides the Body with Vitamin C
One apple provides the body with around 14% of the recommended daily intake of Vitamin C. Vitamins C helps protect DNA by protecting the body from free radical damage. Apple health benefits include the ability to promote skin cell renewal, heal cuts and wounds and guard the body against infections.
7. Helps Manage Weight
Apple health benefits include weight management. The fiber apples contain help keep you fuller for longer while maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. The natural sugar in apples can help satisfy a craving for sweets without causing you to pack on the pounds. (3)
8. Fights Diabetes
A healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables can help naturally fight diabetes. Apple health benefits include improved insulin sensitivity to prevent diabetes and weight gain. The antioxidants and fiber in apples also play a role in natural diabetes treatment.
9. Fights Asthma Symptoms
Apples have been linked to a decreased risk of asthma and a decrease in bronchial hypersensitivity. Apple health benefits include natural control of asthma symptoms thanks to the antioxidants, flavonoids and other nutrients they contain.
10. Provides the Body with Boron
Apples contain boron, a mineral that plays a key role in building strong bones. Apple health benefits include preventing osteoporosis, building muscle mass and supporting brain function.