An Apple A Day…

… why does it keep the doctor away?  Apples are a rich source of polyphenols, which are responsible for many health benefits. Apples also contain the flavonoid antioxidant Quercetin, which benefits the heart and helps to prevent allergy symptoms and possible reduces risk of cancers. Only catch is, you also need to eat the skin. Apples contain vitamin C, K, A, E, B1, B2, and B6, potassium, manganese, and copper. Apples have been shown to help with weight loss because of their high fiber and water content. Not only are they filling but they are refreshing. The products from the apple however do not have the same characteristic assistance. Apples have antioxidants which helps to lower your blood cholesterol levels as well as blood pressure. These intern help to protect the heart as well or better than prescriptions. Apples have also been shown to help with lowering type 2 diabetes. The polyphenols prevent tissue damage in your pancreas from the insulin level attacks. Apples also encourage healthy gut bacteria. The pectin, which is fiber, acts as a prebiotic, feeding the good bacteria. In addition, the chlorogenic acid and catechin compounds in apples help the injured lining in the stomach, especially if you take NSAID medications. Lastly, Apples reduce reactive oxygen species that accumulates in brain tissue, which in turn minimized mental decline as we age. So whoever started the phrase, “An apple a day, keeps the doctor away” knew something of the health promoting contents of apples.