Will An Apple A Day Lead To Better Health?

Perhaps one of the most easily recognized expressions or cliche’s around is the phrase, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” comes to mind. In addition to the fact that it rhymes thus making if fun to say and easy to remember, many wonder if it has any truth to the adage. Could it be true that a simple apple will truly help someone to maintain the perfect form of health?

The first mention of this adage is found in the February 1866 publication of “Notes and Queries.” Printed as a proverb like this: “Eat an apple on going to bed, and you’ll keep the doctor from earning his bread.” Now, nearly 150 years later, there are many variations of this saying that are still quoted. It is highly unlikely that this saying would have held such popularity if there wasn’t at least a scrap of truth to it correct? Keeping that in mind, let us take a moment to consider how some of the component’s of the apple can affect one’s health.

Pectin: This form of soluble fiber not only lowers blood pressure but, it can also lower glucose levels. It lowers the LDL levels which are considered the Bad cholesterol of the body. As other forms of fiber, it can assist the body in maintaining the health of the digestion system. Apples are by and far the most valuable source of pectin.

Boron: This nutrient is found in abundance in an apple. Boron not only supports strong bones, but also a healthy brain.

Quercetin: This flavonoid is a nutrient that shows great promise for reducing the risk of a variety of cancers. This includes cancers of both the breast and the lungs. Reducing free radical damage which can develop when atoms in the body cells do not have paired electrons. This can then lead to damage in a variety of parts of the body including the cells and the DNA. It may also neutralize free radical damage that has long been implicated in a variety of age issues due to health problems. This also includes Alzheimer’s.

Vitamin C: A great immunity booster that helps to maintain overall health.

Phytonutrients: A rich source of phytonutrients these include not only Vitamins A and Vitamin E, but also beta carotene. These are ideal for fighting damage from the free radicals and they can have a profound affect upon ones health. This can include lowering the risk of heart disease as well as diabetes and asthma.

Another great benefit of apples is the ability to act as a sort of toothbrush. They clean your teeth and kill bacteria thus reducing the risk of tooth decay. Low in calories and very filling they are perhaps the most ideal food for most diets. Readily available and very affordable they may just be the ideal food for any budget as well. While the old adage “An Apple A Day Keeps The Doctor Away” may not be quite 100 percent true, it sure can’t help to eat one a day for health benefits.