An Apple A Day Keeps the Doctor Away…4 Reasons to Eat Apples this Autumn

What is a fruit that is packed with nutrients, tasty, and comes in over 1000 varieties? If you were thinking apples, you were right! They are one of the most popular fruits in the United States and are grown all across the country. Bite into this mouthwatering fruit this October for National Apple Month.

As the leaves begin to change colors and fall off trees, apples begin to grow. Autumn is the perfect time for you to indulge in one of the season’s most popular fruits. Apples are uniquely named and vary in taste, size, and color. When it comes to picking, storing, and cooking apples there are certain tips you can try to ensure you are maximizing all of the flavors this fruit has to offer.

As apples ripen, they become sweeter and their flavor intensifies. Their nutrient profile also makes them a great snack, or you can incorporate them into a meal! Whether you baking an apple pie or dipping them into peanut butter, there is no wrong way to eat an apple.

4 Reasons to Eat More Apples

Apples are loaded with nutrients. Not only do apples look appealing, with their shiny exterior, but they provide a great number of healthful benefits. Many of their nutritious benefits come from their skin. Here are 4 reasons to eat more apples:

1. High in Fiber: Apples provide fiber, in both soluble and insoluble form. Soluble fiber may help lower cholesterol levels, while insoluble fiber aids in maintaining a healthy gastrointestinal tract and digestion.

2. Contain Pectin: The starch pectin that is found in the skin of apples is a form of fiber that acts as a prebiotic to promote a healthy gut.

3. Loaded with Vitamin C: Eating an apple is a great way to boost your immune health due to its Vitamin C content. Vitamin C is a potent antioxidant and helps your body grow and repair tissue.

4. Rich in Antioxidants: Apples contain numerous antioxidants that help fight inflammation and boost your immune system.

Apple Tips & Tricks

Whether you are picking apples straight from the orchard, or hitting up your local grocery store, there are some tricks you should know before choosing and eating apples. Here are some tips:

Buying: The great thing about Fall is that apples are in season. You can go pick them yourself and spend quality time with your family. Or, if you do not live near an orchard, you can usually buy apples by the bundle at your local grocery store! The key is to know what apples are in season, as apple seasons are usually shorter than you think. You can always ask the workers at the orchard or a grocer.

Storing: A great place to store apples is in a cool place, or the refrigerator in the crisper. Most apples last up to 3 weeks.

Cooking: Apples are so versatile and fun, you can cook them, eat them raw, bake them, or sauté them. By baking apples, their natural sugars caramelize, and they make the perfect dessert item.

Your Turn to Take Action: What is your favorite variety of apple? Let me know in the comment section below.