Apples in Your Diet: Asthma and Other Health Benefits

Apples are in the Rose family and have a diverse nutrient content. Because of this, the saying, "an apply a day keeps the doctor away" probably holds some weight. Apples have been shown to possibly be a good food to eat for those with asthma.

Asthma

Several different studies have shown that eating more apples is related to a reduced risk of asthma. The anti-asthma benefits of apples are associated with the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant nutrients in the fruit. Some of the studies on the anti-asthma benefits of apples were stronger than others, but more research is needed overall. On the topic of your lungs, apples are also believed to be a beneficial food for lung cancer. It will not cure it, but it does have good nutrients for the lungs that may help to complement traditional medical treatments.

Cardiovascular Benefits

Research studies show plenty of cardiovascular benefits with apples. These benefits generally come from apples having an unusual mix of polyphenols and water-soluble fiber. Regularly eating apples may reduce total and LDL cholesterol. Recent research shows that the quercetin apples contain provides anti-inflammatory benefits for your cardiovascular system.

Blood Sugar Regulation

How apples help with regulating blood sugar is still a new area of research. The polyphenols contained in apples have the ability to influence how our bodies absorb and digest carbohydrates. Apple polyphenols impact our carbohydrate processing by slowing down carbohydrate digestion, stimulating the pancreas to produce more insulin, reduction of glucose absorption and ridding excess blood sugar from the body.

Anti-Cancer Benefits

Several different types of cancer may benefit from apples. It is important to note that apples will not cure any type of cancer. Their nutrients may simply complement traditional medical treatments. As noted above apples are specifically linked to lung cancer and there is a unique association with a reduction in lung cancer. Some studies suggest that regular apple consumption may lower your risk of developing lung cancer. While no specific nutrient or combination of nutrients explains this, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits are thought to play a role.

Other Possible Benefits

In addition to the above benefits, apples also benefit other areas of our health. While further research is needed, preliminary research suggests that apples may also be good for macular degeneration, Alzheimer's disease, neurodegenerative problems and bone loss. As more studies are done, it seems we will uncover more benefits of apples as well.

Resources

WHFoods: Apples