Apples are a popular fruit that contains antioxidants, vitamins, dietary fiber, and a host of other nutrients. Since their nutrient content varies, they may help prevent a number of health conditions.
Apples come in many shapes, colors, and flavors and provide a range of nutrients that are beneficial to human health. In this article, learn more about the benefits and nutritional value of apples.
1. Neurological health and dementia
Quercetin is neuroprotective, probably because it prevents the production of the active substance. It might help neurons survive and continue to function. Therefore, it may help prevent age-related neuronal loss.
2. Stroke
People who ate the most apples had a lower risk of thrombotic stroke. Apples have many nutrients that may reduce the risk of stroke.
It was found that people who consumed the most fiber appeared to have a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, coronary heart disease, and stroke. A medium-sized apple, weighing about 182 grams (g) in diameter, provides 4.37 grams of fiber.
3. Cholesterol
Eating raw apples lowered LDL cholesterol levels in healthy people, but drinking clear apple juice didn't have the same effect. Therefore, concluded that the fiber in apples helps lower cholesterol.
4. Diabetes
People who substituted the same amount of whole fruit (including apples) for three servings of fruit juice each week had a 7 percent lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared with those who ate no fruit.
Research shows that those who eat the most fiber have a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. People who already have diabetes and follow a high-fiber diet may also have lower blood sugar levels.
5. Anticancer
Consuming foods rich in antioxidants may help prevent oxidative stress, which can lead to cell damage and may contribute to the development of certain cancers. Apples are a good source of antioxidants.
Consuming apples may help reduce the risk of cancers such as lung, breast, and colorectal cancer.
6. Anti-asthma
Apple peels contain the flavonoid quercetin, which can help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation. Apples contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help regulate immune responses and prevent asthma.
7. Good for Bone Health
Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds in apples can promote bone health. What's more, eating fruit may help preserve bone mass as you grow old.
8. Anti-inflammatory
Two plant compounds in apples -- chlorogenic acid and catechins -- are thought to be especially useful. Apples contain compounds that may help protect your stomach lining from damage caused by NSAIDs.
9. Improve memory
Apple juice may help preserve acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that declines with age. Low levels of acetylcholine have been linked to Alzheimer's disease. Apple juice may help prevent a decline in memory-related neurotransmitters.