An Apple A Day…….

We’ve all heard the saying ’An apple a day keeps the doctor away’.

Apples can stand up to that quote more than you know. Research has shown that apples, ESPECIALLY eaten WITH THE SKIN, are downright packed with antioxidants, nutrients, fiber, flavonoids, and phytochemicals. The apple’s skin contains something called triterpenoids, which have been found to have powerful anti-cancer activity against breast, colon and liver cancer. The skin and the inside of the apple together, have been found to help prevent health problems including cardiovascular disease, asthma, lung cancer, Alzheimer’s and dementia, and excess weight.

* An average apple contains 5 grams of fiber. Research has shown that for every 10 grams of fiber added to a diet, there is a 14% reduction in heart illness.

* The flavonoid phlorizidin, found only in apples, may help prevent osteoporosis and may increase bone density in post-menopausal women.

* Pregnant women who eat apples may protect their children from developing asthma. The apple was the only food recorded with a consistent protective correlation against lung disease. The children of moms who ate 4 apples a week had a 53% lower chance of having doctor-confirmed asthma.

* A recent study at Cornell University discovered quercetin, an antioxidant, may protect brain cells against oxidative stress, a factor associated with Alzheimers.

APPLE GUIDELINES

-The freshest apples are available September through November.

-Pick apples that are firm, undented, have a shiny skin and fresh fragrance.

-Golden Delicious are considered the best all purpose apple; Granny Smith and Rome are great for baking; and Red Delicious and Fuji make wonderful salads.

-To prevent apples from browning inside after they’re cut, squeeze a little citrus juice (lemon, lime, orange) on them immediately.

-Store apples in a cool dark place like a plastic bag in the crisper of the fridge.

And hey, the next time you see your doctor, share an apple:)

Source – Life Extensions 7/11