Why we say, “An apple a day, keeps the doctor away”?

Why we say, “An apple a day, keeps the doctor away”?

May 21, 2013

Apple is among those high class fruits that have gained a huge reputation in the mind of researchers in relation to the health benefits it offers. And this reputation is increasing day by day as the research is advancing. Apple is found to contain those important constituents that have the power to protect us against life threatening diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, obesity, diabetes etc. There are thousands of dollars that are expended every year on the treatment of these diseases.  A large proportion of these diseases can be prevented directly by mere understanding of relation of diet to our health.

What Apple contains – that make it so healthful?

Much of the protection that fruits and vegetable offers is because of phytochemicals they contain. Flavonoids, an important class of phytochemicals, are present in apples in abundance. These phytochemicals are responsible for range of activities essential to our health. Besides, Apple is a good source of antioxidants. Apple is regarded as containing second highest level of antioxidants after Cranberry. Presence of these antioxidants helps us in protection against oxidative stress and aging.

Does storage of Apple affects its quality?

Much of the research findings concluded that storage of apples have a little affect on the level of phytochemicals they contain. Apple storage for 2-3 months does not present any loss of nutrients, but temperature should be around 2-3 0C. Good moisture in storage area helps to keep them fresh for longer periods of time.

Apple juice OR raw apple – Which is better?

Processing of apples for juices result in ample loss of nutrients. So it is always advised to consume them in direct i.e., in raw form.

Caution: The seeds of apples are found to contain slight toxicity levels, so central portion of Apples should always be discarded.

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