National Apple Week

This week we are celebrating an American staple: the apple! While most people have heard the old idiom “an apple a day keeps the doctor away”, many people may not understand the meaning behind this. Apples provide health benefits from the numerous nutrients within them to help keep us from getting sick and staying in tip-top shape!

Appealing- Apples are sweet, crisp and juicy! With over 7,500 types of apples harvested around the world and 2,500 types in the United States alone, it would be hard to say you couldn’t find one or many that you loved! Apples are easy to eat because they require minimal preparation (from just washing, to cutting, dicing and cooking) and are low in cost. They are also a part of one of America’s favorite pastime’s apple-picking! Nothing is more fun and American than that!

Phytochemicals- Apples are very high in many phytochemicals which are natural compounds in plants which offer health benefits to the consumer. The phytochemicals in apples have antioxidant properties which help to prevent cancer and other diseases. While these compounds are in the whole fruit, the majority of them are found in the skin, so it is better to NOT peel the apples before you eat them!

Protects body- While apples may be a small fruit, they pack a big punch! The array of nutrients in apples can help to slow and prevent bone and teeth decay and loss, protect brain function, as well as lung function. Who wouldn’t want all of this wrapped up tightly into a small delicious treat!?

Low in calories- Small to medium sized apples (the ones usually found packaged in bags) are around 60 calories each, coming from 15 grams of carbohydrates. Keep in mind, the bigger the apple, the more carbs, and the more calories. While apples are a naturally healthy source of energy, they too can become unhealthy if only prepared and consumed in desserts, with butter and sugar.

Energizing- Apples are from carbohydrate, thus being an excellent source of energy. Vitamins from apples are slowly released into the body once eaten, which creates an awakening feeling that has proven to last longer than a cup of coffee.

Satiating- As said above, eating the skin of the apple helps to provide more health benefits, but it also provides a good source of fiber. We know that fiber helps to keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer, along with other advantages such as lowering “bad” cholesterol!

Now that you know all of the benefits that they offer us, will you be going out and stocking up on these delicious fruits?  They are an easy and smart way to start your day or to grab for a snack when you are heading out the door!

How ‘bout them apples? J

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