It's Apple Season, Take Advantage of This Healthy Fruit

There are many varieties of apples available during this time of year, at they are at their peak. For this reason, it is a great time to begin eating an apple a day. Apples have a large number of health benefits that should motivate you to add them to you as well as your family's diet.

Health Benefits of Apples Include:

Lower Cholesterol
Apples contain a soluble fiber, called pectin which has been shown to support a healthy heart.

Weight Loss
Apples are a great source of dietary fiber. This fiber aids in digestion and promotes weight loss. Apples are also fat free, low in calories, and can help you to curb your sweet tooth.

Cancer Prevention
Apples contain a flavonoid called Quercetin which has been found by the Mayo Clinic to prevent the growth of prostate cancer cells. The skin of an apple has been found to inhibit the reproduction of colon cancer cells by 43%, in a study done by Cornell University. The flavonoids in apples may also reduce the risk of lung cancer as much as 50 percent (The National Cancer Institute).

Healthy Lungs
Recent British studies have shown that eating apples can improve the health of your lungs. It has been shown that eating 5 or more apples per week can improve lung function and lower the risk for respiratory disease.

Heart Disease
In 1996, a Finnish study showed that a diet rich in flavonoids may lower the possibility of heart disease and prevent strokes.

Other Reasons to Eat Apples:

Fiber
One medium sized apple contains approximately 3 grams of fiber, ½ gram is soluble fiber. Apple peel is insoluble fiber, which is also beneficial because it provides roughage which aides in digestion.

Hydration
One medium apple provides ½ cup of water, hydrating your body and quenching your thirst. Approximately 12-16 cups of fluids are necessary for most individuals, depending on activity levels.

Vitamin C
10% of your daily vitamin C needs can be met by eating only 1 medium apple.

Potent Antioxidants
Plant based compounds called phytonutrients, are powerful antioxidants that promote health. These antioxidants prevent cell and tissue damage from free radicals in the body.

Potassium
Blood pressure is regulated by the potassium in your body. By eating one medium apple, you provide your body with 150 mg of potassium or 5% of the recommended daily value.

Quick and Healthy Ways to Eat or Drink an Apple a Day:

Apple Wedges

-Plain

-Dip them in fruit dip, peanut butter, caramel sauce.

100% Apple Juice

Apple Cider

Applesauce

Smoothies

Include an apple every day and you will feel much better inside and out!