An Apple A Day

We all remember hearing that an apple a day will keep the doctor away and we all as children probably remembering thinking that that was just something parents said to get us eating healthy treats versus the sugary, chocolatey snacks we were interested in eating. As it turns out, there is a significant amount of truth to that old saying because apples are nutritional powerhouses full of good for you vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, all of which are beneficial to our overall health.

Let's investigate why an apple a day is something we should all be aiming for.

​BRAIN FOOD

Apples are abundant in quercetin, an antioxidant that has been studied and shown to reduce oxidation and cell death in our bodies, ultimately protecting our brains. These antioxidants protect against neurological disorders like Alzheimer's and dementia and have been studied for their ability to improve brain function in mice that had dementia. Although not definitive, there's plenty of studies that suggest eating an apple a day is a brain boosting benefit.

​CANCER FIGHTERS

There are multiple studies that show that triterpenoids in the skin of apples can help to protect against a variety of cancers and can even inhibit cancer growth in the breast, colon, and liver. Another study found that extracts from apples actually reduced the size of mammary tumors in rats. With all of these studies and their various findings, it's safe to say that apples are a welcome addition to a healthy, strong immune system.

HEART HEALTH

High soluble fiber found in apples has a plethora of body benefits, one of which is reducing artery plaque. Studies have shown that artery plaque decreases blood flow to the heart ultimately putting us at risk of coronary disease but the phenolic compound found in apple skins prevents the cholesterol from solidifying on your artery walls ultimately protecting our hearts.

FIBER 

Getting enough fiber in our diets is one of the most body beneficial things we can do for ourselves. Getting enough fiber protects against obesity and high cholesterol, helps to manage the symptoms of IBS, aids in remedying constipation, and helps to keep things flowing smoothly ultimately protecting us against hemorrhoids.

VITAMINS & MINERALS

The more vitamins and minerals we get in a day, the better off we'll be, so enjoying an apple a day is a great way to increase our nutrient intake. Apples are high in immune boosting vitamin c, b-complex vitamins, and phytochemicals, all of which keep us strong, healthy, and full of energy. An apple a day is a great way to ward off colds and flus with a strong, healthy immune system that's ready to fight.

Can an apple a day make you immortal? Not quite, but it can certainly help to achieve an overall well-being. With its plethora of vitamins and minerals, dietary fiber, and phytochemicals, there's no denying that an apple a day is a benefit to our health. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and grab an apple to start the day!

HAPPY VEG

Information taken from 
https://www.besthealthmag.ca/best-eats/nutrition/health-benefits-apples/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/267290.php#nutrition