The Health Advantages of Apples

Apples are a popular fruit and are plentiful here in the US.  They are available in many different varieties. Apple flavors can range from sour to sweet, crisp to soft and are  red, yellow or green. But when one thinks of apples, it is hard not to conjure up the old adage that an apple a day keeps the doctor away.  But what exactly are some common benefits of apples? And should we be eating them with such fervor?

Nutrition

Apples are jam packed with nutrients that our bodies need. Some of these vitamins include Vitamin A and C. Also, apple are filled to the brim with fiber which aids in healthy digestion of vitamins and minerals and also help remove toxins from the body.

If you eat apples everyday you can also reap the benefits of all of those antioxidants that an apple contains. Antioxidants are useful because they prevent oxidation of body tissues. This means they generally have a reversal affect for tissue damage and premature aging.  However, keep in mind that those antioxidants reside primarily in the skin of the apple, so if you peel the skin, you will not obtain those benefits.

Palate Cleanser

If you plan to meet with colleagues and have just consumed a meal heavy in onion or garlic content, apples are actually an awesome way to freshen your breath. The fiber in apples works to remove food particles that adhere to the surface of teeth and gums and the ascorbic acid (from Vitamin C) works to remove any bad odors. Eating an apple leaves your breath super fresh--just don't forget to floss or use a toothpick if you are in fact meeting someone! Also, be mindful that the acid is a bit corrosive on the enamel so try not to brush your teeth too soon after eating an apple.

Dental health

And to that end, if you ever find yourself in a position where you do not have a toothbrush, but an apple is handy, you can consume the apple and then drink a glass of water to wash away any residual sugar.  This can serve as a temporary dental cleaning process if you are ever in a bind--read late night out and knowledge that you will be too tired to brush those pearly whites when you get home.

What are some of your favorite things about apples? Please leave a comment below to join the discussion.