An apple a day...

It is estimated that there are over 7,500 varieties of apple worldwide. The apple tree (Malus sp.) is a decidious tree producing fruit in late summer or autumn. A member of the Rose family, its white five-petaled blossoms and its alternate, oval-shaped leaves appear simultaneously in the springtime.

We all know the famous proverb « An apple a day keeps the doctor away », but how exactly does an apple a day keep the doctor away ?

Could it be due to the antioxidants it contains which help slow aging and may prevent chronic disease? Or is it the fibres which contribute to a healthy digestion and regulate glucose levels after eating ? [1][2] I have a feeling that it may be both of these reasons and more...

When I was in my twenties I suffered from asthma. Steroid inhalers and other medication alleviated the symptoms but my overall health deteriorated. Following advice in a book I was given on alternative treatment for asthma, I started changing my eating habits. Instead of cereals or toast for breakfast, I prepared porridge oats soaked in apple juice the night before and ate this topped with grated apple, a natural yoghurt, honey and nuts the next morning. Over time, my condition improved. Was it the apple ? I don’t know, yet there does seem to be some evidence that this could have helped. Studies have shown a correlation between regular consumption of apples and a beneficial effect on lung function [1][2]. In addition, apples have been proven to reduce inflammation and regulate immune responses [1]. I continue to eat fruit every morning, including apples when they are in season, and in over 20 years have not had a single asthma attack.

In addition to these health benefits, apples are versatile, highly nutritious and, frankly, delicious ! There are so many different varieties to choose from. My personal favourite is goldrush. What is your favourite variety of apple ?

To find out more about what antioxidants do, check out the post "Strawberries, olives and polyphenols".

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[1] Boyer J, Liu RH. Apple phytochemicals and their health benefits. Nutr J. 2004 May 12;3:5.

[2] Hyson D, A Comprehensive Review of Apples and Apple Components and Their Relationship to Human Health, Advances in Nutrition, Volume 2, Issue 5, 2011, Pages 408-420, ISSN 2161-8313.