Health Benefits of Apples

"Millions saw the apple fall, but Newton was the one who asked why." - Bernard M. Baruch. Like the above quip, there are many that sing praise of this red fruit. In some way or the other, apples have benefited mankind. Not only do they keep the doctor away, but they have also played a fundamental role in our understanding of this beautiful world. Apples are loaded with nutrition and antioxidants, giving us protection from a hoard of diseases. The best part about apples is that one can consume them in any form to benefit from their healing properties.

Apples are highly nutritious. They are rich in vitamin C and are the best source of flavonoids and antioxidants. These fruits also have a high fiber content. They are loaded with wholesome goodness for the entire body.

Stronger Bones: Apples contain a flavonoid called phlorizin, which is known to prevent osteoporosis in menopausal women. They also contain boron, which is known to increase bone density, thus making bone stronger.

Weight Loss and Skin Care: Apples are ideal fruits to consume when on a diet, as they not only facilitate weight loss, but also provide the necessary nutrition that the body needs. Apples are great for the skin, they are known to delay the aging process. Thereby delaying the onset of wrinkles. It also helps protect the skin from various skin diseases. Also known to promote hair growth because they contain a substance known as procyanidin B-2.

Diabetes: The nutrition content in apples is known to help people with diabetes. Apples contain pectin, which assists the body in fighting the need for insulin. It also prevents the protein in the intestines from getting spoiled.

Heart Diseases: Amongst the other health benefits of apples, they are known to reduce bad cholesterol, thereby protecting the body from numerous heart diseases. It is believed that two apples a day can reduce cholesterol by 15%. If you eat apples or drink apple juice, you will be protecting your heart.

Asthma: Apples are known to benefit asthmatics greatly. Apple juice is known to reduce wheezing in asthmatics. Its high flavonoids and antioxidants content is known to make the immune system stronger, thereby reducing the frequency of asthmatic attacks and allergies.

Alzheimer's: They are also known to reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. They protect the brain from the damaging effect of the above mentioned diseases. The goodness of apples is also known to improve memory.

Cancer: Of all the health benefits, the most important advantage of eating apples is that the flavonoids and antioxidants are known to have cancer fighting properties. Compounds like quercetin and phytonutrients are known to prevent prostate and lung cancer. Flavonoids are known to benefit the digestive system, prevents colon cancer, kidney stones and bladder cancer. Apples are rich in anticarcinogenic properties. Apples are also known to prevent breast cancer.

To get the full benefit, one must consume apples with the skin, as the skin is the most nutritive part of the apple. These days many pesticides are sprayed on fruits to make them last longer, so it's best to wash the fruit well before consuming it. If possible, it is best to consume organic apples.