Debra Loder, RDN
I’m sure that you know the familiar expression, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” This phrase was first created in 1913, and was based on a proverb that originated in 1866. The original quote was: “Eat an apple on going to bed, and you’ll keep the doctor from earning his bread.”
Eating more apples may not actually be associated with fewer visits to the doctor, however, adding apples to your diet can have a positive impact on your health.
Although the crab apple is the only variety of apples. There are more than 2,500 varieties of apples grown in the United States today. Common varieties include Red Delicious, Fuji, Golden Delicious, Braeburn, McIntosh, and Gala. Different varieties have different qualities making some apples better for cooking and others better for eating out of hand.
Although we typically think of Fall as being Apple Season, many varieties are available year-round in grocery stores.
Apple juice, flesh, and apple cider vinegar all contain a high level of malic acid which is a compound that is beneficial in treating fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and gallstones. In addition, Apples are high in fiber, especially pectin, which may help in regulating blood glucose and blood lipids. In addition, Apples contain quercetin, procyanidins, and Vitamin C which are all beneficial in the prevention of disease and cancer.
Apples are delicious, versatile and one of the most consumed fruits in the world. Whether eaten as a healthy snack or used in a tasty recipe, there is no doubt that Apples are great addition to a healthy diet.
