They keep you in shape, provide antioxidants, and act as a
tremendous appetite suppressant. Here’s why you should consume apples –
without moderation!
Anti-aging properties
The apple is a mine of antioxidants in which anti-aging properties have been scientifically proven. One of the most powerful – Quercetin – has anti-cancer capabilities. According to researchers at Cornell University (USA), the daily intake of apples reduces the volume and danger of cancerous tumors. This fruit is also a weapon against diabetes and obesity: it contains ursolic acid – a compound that reduces the level of sugar in the blood and promotes the elimination of fats. Its richness in flavonoids also improves bone mineral density.
Vitamins Galore
“An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” This saying was not in vain because the apple is indeed full of vitamin C (8.6 mg for a standard fruit 150 g). Hence making the apple ideal for staying fit and fighting against microbial infections. It also delivers a lot of vitamin B – essential for proper brain function – and potassium – a mineral that protects against hypertension.
The Best Varieties
There is a wide variety of apples to pick from so vary your options. At least twice a week, choose from the rustic apples – Pippin or Boskoop – because they contain five times more vitamin C than others. However, do not neglect the Red Delicious and Starking with dark red skin, which contain pigments (anthocyanins) that are high in antioxidants. It is always better to eat the apples in smaller pieces, without peeling the skin. Also remember to wash the apples thoroughly because if the fruits are not organic, the skin may contain residues of toxic pesticides.
Recipe
Apple and walnut salad:
Grate 400g of carrots and 2 large Granny Smith. Mix in a bowl with some walnuts. In another bowl, pour lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil, 5 leaves chopped fresh coriander, salt and pepper. Spread this dressing over the salad.
For a flat stomach
Its high content of pectins (soluble fibers which swell when in contact with water in the stomach), makes it a very filling fruit despite its low caloric intake (about 54 cal/100g). As a natural appetite suppressant, they also receive cholesterol and regulate intestinal transit. Apples also relieve constipation and prevent the accumulation of digestive gas.
