Enjoy the health benefits of apples this Fall

Apples offer a variety of health benefits not just great taste.

Does an apple a day really keep the doctor away? Apples are part of the Rose family of plants that include apricots, plums, cherries, peaches, pears, raspberries, and almonds. The Rose family of foods have diverse nutrient values. It is important to include a wide variety of fruit in your diet on a daily basis.

Michigan State University Extension promotes eating at last 2-3 whole fresh fruits, or the equivalent of 2-3 cups worth of fresh fruit a day. 

Health benefits of apples include:

  • Apples can certainly be included for their benefits of adding water-soluble fiber, a mix of polyphenols (Phytochemicals are naturally occurring compounds that give plants their colors or help to protect them from various things they might face in nature. Phytochemicals are thought to work as antioxidants to protect the cells in your body from free radical damage) and provides vitamin C to our body. 
  • Apples provide our cardiovascular system with anti-inflammatory benefits which can lower the risk of chronic heart problems.
  • Research has shown apples to demonstrate a unique relationship with lung cancer risk reduction, as well as colon and breast cancer.
  • Multiple studies have shown apples to be associated with decreased risk of asthma.
  • Eating a whole apple rather than applesauce or apple juice is proven to be more satisfying. Eating whole apples is an extra benefit in helping us to manage our hunger and calorie intake. When healthy adults consume one medium-sized apple approximately 15 minutes before a meal, their calorie intake is decreased about 15 percent. 

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