The old adage about eating an apple a day to keep the doctor away has merit. Apples are an enzyme-rich energy food that helps the body’s digestive system. Besides that, apples are low in calories and fat. Simply eating an apple a day can improve a person’s health in five key ways.
1. Whiter Teeth
Apples cannot replace a toothbrush, but they can cause the body to produce more saliva. A greater production of saliva reduces tooth decay by decreasing the levels of bacteria in the mouth. Less bacteria in the mouth leads to healthier teeth and a whiter smile.
2. Lower Risk of Developing Cancer
According to the American Association for Cancer Research, people can reduce their risk of developing pancreatic cancer by up to 23 percent if they consume apples regularly. Apples contain flavonol and other compounds that fight against cancer cells. Besides pancreatic cancer, apples can also reduce the risk of liver, colon and breast cancer.
3. Can Prevent Diabetes
Those who eat at least one apple a day are 28 percent less likely to develop type 2 diabetes than those who never eat apples. Since apples are full of soluble fiber, they help stabilize blood sugar. Apples also contain quercetin, which is an antioxidant that helps fortify the immune system.
4. Healthier Heart
Apple skins have a phenolic compound that can prevent plaque from sticking to artery walls. When plaque builds in the arteries, it reduces blood flow and leads to heart disease. The soluble fiber found in apples can even lower cholesterol levels; therefore, people should eat apples to make their heart healthier.
5. Helps Control Weight
Many health problems occur when people are overweight. Heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and sleep apnea are all common health problems associated with obesity. Those who manage their weight can improve their overall health. One of the easiest ways to do this is to eat a fiber-rich diet without consuming too many calories. Apples are an ideal food because they are low in calories and high in fiber.
People can improve their health by eating an apple a day. Apples are more beneficial than most other foods. In fact, they are full of antioxidants and soluble fiber. Studies have shown that an eating an apple a day can lower the risk of diabetes, cancer and heart disease. Those who start eating apples regularly may even lose weight and gain a whiter smile. Try a That’s it fruit bar as a daily snack to get your daily dose of apple health!
