Apples are so common, they may be taken for granted (try making one!) but this mainstay of the fruit bowl may not have been getting the credit it deserves. Did you know there are over 7,000 varieties of apple? No longer should they be seen as just a mundane everyday fruit for they contain a whole array of anciently-modern goodness – there’s a reason apples are known for keeping the doctor away, so continue reading to find out more in our Top 5 Health Benefits of Apples!
1. Cleans your teeth
Contrary to what most people hear from the dentist about fruit being bad for your teeth, apples can be a good way to keep your teeth clean between brushes. How can this be? Well, eating an apple makes your mouth produce saliva that rinses your mouth and teeth, cleaning them, while the apples texture scrubs your gums.
2. Lowers cholesterol
They have been shown to lower bad (LDL) cholesterol as they are rich in pectin. Pectin, a naturally occurring fibre which is used as a setting agent in jams, can actually prevent cholesterol from being absorbed in the gut. Research by the European Journal of Nutrition shows that apples can in fact reduce cholesterol levels altogether.
3. Healthier lungs
Extremely high in antioxidants, apples can help improve your lung function by tackling free radicals commonly found in air pollutants. Research has also indicated that eating apples can be a factor in lowering a young adult’s risk of getting asthma.
4. Helps prevent and control diabetes
Due to the fact apples contain soluble fibre, apple sugars are released slowly which helps to regulate your blood sugar levels. This means that even in diabetics, apples are unlikely to cause a major spike in blood sugar levels. All of this is coupled with the fact that they can help increase insulin sensitivity by encouraging the pancreas to release insulin.
5. Full of fibre
Unsurprisingly apples are full of fibre, especially if you eat the skin (where lots of the health benefits are hidden), and can be very helpful for your digestion. One medium sized apple contains 4.4g of fibre which helps regulate digestion keeping you feeling fuller for longer.
A staple in most households and now you know why, apples are so much more than just a tasty snack. Want to change it up? Watch the video above to see how to make super quick and easy apple crisps, a perfect healthy alternative to potato crisps. Remember there’s so much you can do with the apple, as we all know eaten both raw or cooked they are delicious. Comment with your thoughts and favourite recipes below, join in the conversation on Facebook and follow us on Twitter. (Why not munch over some other healthy-eating ideas from our other Top 5’s designed to help you Keep YOUR Fit ON!)
