10 Cool Health Benefits Of Apples

Apples:

You know what they say: An apple a day keeps the doctor away. As it turns out, that couldn't be truer. Apple's offer a wealth of benefits for your body, helping you to feel healthier and to avoid disease. Eating this fruit regularly is a great way to treat yourself to a sweet (or tart) snack while also giving your body a little health boost. Check out this list of 10 remarkable health benefits you can get from eating one of the most affordable and delicious fruits out there.

1. Lower Cholesterol

Having high cholesterol counts can lead to several health problems in the long run. By eating apples, you consume phytonutrients, which can lower your LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol levels. One study found that eating two apples a day has the potential to lower cholesterol levels by as much as 16 percent. For that much of a reduction, eating apples may be the easiest way to lower your cholesterol.

2. Improved Digestion

For people with digestive problems, apples are an easy way to get you back on track. Apples are packed with fiber, which helps regulate your digestive system. That means regular, smooth bowel movements and less pain and discomfort from indigestion and constipation. In the long run, apples can also help you avoid certain stomach disorders by keeping your digestive system in check.

3. Energy Boost

The natural sugars in apples are good for more than just their sweet taste. They also provide a natural energy boost. That's why apples are a great choice for an early-morning snack or a post-workout treat. They taste great while also giving you the perk you need without having to drink caffeine or energy drinks.

4. Anemia Treatment

Apples are packed with iron, so they offer a convenient way to treat anemia. Iron increases hemoglobin levels in the body, which counteracts the effects of anemia. That's why it can help to eat an apple if you happen to feel weak or faint. The natural sugars combined with the rich iron content will help give you the boost you need to feel alert again.

5. Reduced Risk of Cancer

Apples have several health benefits that may help you reduce your risk of certain types of cancer. The fiber in apples helps regulate your digestive system, lowering your chance of getting colon cancer in the future. Furthermore, several studies have also shown a strong link between eating apples regularly and a reduced risk of breast cancer. Apples are also one of the few fruits and vegetables that have been shown to lower a person's risk for lung cancer. Overall, apples are quite exceptional in the area of cancer prevention.

6. Reduced Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Apples are often noted for their rich antioxidant content. As it turns out, the fact that apples contain antioxidants actually makes them one of the more heart-healthy fruits. By consuming apples, people can protect lipid peroxidation (the oxidation of fats) from occurring. This lowers the risk for a long list of chronic heart problems, including cardiovascular disease. Since the risk for heart problems increases with age, it's never too late to start eating apples to improve your heart health.

7. Relief for Asthma

If you suffer from asthma, drinking apple juice can help give you a little relief from your symptoms. Studies have linked drinking apple juice at least once a day to a reduction of wheezing and other breathing problems associated with asthma. The scientific proof for this health benefit lies in the antioxidants and anti-inflammatory nutrients found in apples. For the best results, make sure that the apple juice you are drinking is fresh. Expectant mothers can also take steps to prevent asthma in their children by eating a lot of apples while they are pregnant.

8. Better Diabetes Management

People with diabetes can encounter serious long-term effects related to the disease, including neuropathy, kidney disease and vision problems. By eating apples regularly, those who have diabetes can help prevent some of these long-term risks. That's because apples have pectin, which alleviates the body's need for insulin. Furthermore, the polyphenols in apples help to improve the regulation of blood sugar in the body.

9. Improved Eyesight

Eye problems are often unpreventable, but fortunately, apples can help to ease some of the effects of poor eyesight. Apples contain a considerable amount of both vitamin A and vitamin C, which help to treat night blindness. They also strengthen eyes and can help to prevent eyesight from worsening.

10. Prevent Alzheimer's

One of the most amazing health benefits of apples is their ability to prevent Alzheimer's disease. Though studies are still being conducted in this area, several have already found that a special ingredient in apples called quercetin can protect brain cells from free radical damage, the kind which has been shown to cause Alzheimer's disease. This discovery has given fruit eaters just one more reason to love apples.

So next time you're at the grocery store, consider picking up a few of your favorite apples. Whether you're dieting, trying to eat healthier or just plain living your life, they're a great investment with excellent results.