Health Benefits of Apples

Apples are one of the most popular and widely cultivated fruits worldwide. Tens of millions of apples are grown around the world each year in a number of different cultivars. Apples are generally consumed raw for their sweet taste, or used in baking and sauces. The health benefits of apples tend to play a minor role in the choice to eat apples. However, the health benefits of apples are quite extensive and prove that taste is not the only reason to eat this popular fruit.

Many studies and journal articles have demonstrated the overall health benefits of apples. One of these benefits can be attributed to the amount of soluble fiber found in apples. Apples are a great source for this dietary fiber, which comes in the form of pectin. Pectin, when consumed, has been shown to help fight against high cholesterol and help maintain normal cholesterol levels. This fiber has also been demonstrated to help prevent cholesterol reabsorption. As well, fiber has the added benefit of making one feel full and satisfied when consumed as part of a healthy diet. This can help promote weight loss and help against weight gain. One of the other health benefits of apples associated with pectin and fiber is connected to new forms of research, which has demonstrated that apple pectin may play a role in promoting good digestion by increasing the amount of healthy bacteria in the body that can create an idyllic pH balance within the intestine. 

Another one of the important health benefits of apples is that they contain a considerable amount of D-glucaric acid. This compound may be able to play a role in helping the body get rid of unwanted toxins and potential carcinogens that may have an adverse effect on overall health. Apples are also rich in anti-oxidants and phytonutrients that can help fight diseases within the body. These are found in the form of quercetin and chlorogenic acid, among others. 

Lastly, the health benefits of apples extends to the promotion of heart health and the fight against heart disease, through their elevated amounts of vitamin C, and their ability to possibly help in the fight against several types of cancer.

Apples can be ingested in a number of different ways and can be added to a number of different healthy foods to provide a more appealing taste. A personal favorite is adding it to oatmeal in order to get a fiber rich, healthy, and great tasting breakfast. As well, apples are a great addition to natural peanut butter and/or other nut butters for a satisfying snack. Be sure to play around and try different recipes in order to get the health benefits of apples.

Clearly, the health benefits of apples are quite extensive. In large part, consumers overlook many of the health benefits of apples when making the choice to consume this delicious fruit. However, apples are beginning to gain wider recognition by the public for their abilities to offer a delicious yet healthy and nutrient rich food that is a great addition to any healthy diet and/or work out plan. In order to gain the health benefits of apples, they should be consumed fairly regularly on a consistent basis.