The apple was the earliest fruit to be cultivated and has been improved through selection over thousands of years. Alexander the Great discovered dwarfed apples in Asia Minor and he brought it to Macedonia. Winter apples, picked in late autumn and stored just above freezing, have been an important food in Asia, US, Argentina and Europe for centuries. All must be familiar with the adage that an apple a day keeps the doctor away. So here are some health benefits of the delicious fruit.
• The flavanoid that is found only in apples protects post-menopausal women from osteoporosis and also increases bone density.
• Boron, another ingredient in apples, also strengthens bones. Thus it is very beneficial for growing children and women above 50 years.
• Apples or fresh apple juice reduces the incidence of asthma as well as cures asthma.
• Apples protect the brain cells from the kind of free radical damage that may lead to Alzheimer’s disease.
• The pectin in apples lowers LDL cholesterol which is harmful for the body.
• Apples prevent lung cancer due to the high levels of the flavonoids quercetin and naringin in apples.
• Apples also prevent cancers like breast, liver and colon cancer
• Due to the roughage and high fiber content in apples, its useful for treating constipation and helps maintain a healthy digestive system
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The pectin in apples supplies galacturonic acid to the body which lowers the body’s need for insulin and may help in the management of diabetes.
• Apples are also beneficial for weight loss as they increase the body metabolism.
• Apple contain a large amount of minerals and vitamins that can strengthen the blood.
• Apple cider vinegar when used as beverage can help to prevent the formation of kidney stone.
• Eating an apple daily can lower cholesterol and reduce skin diseases.