You may have heard the phrase, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away”. But have you ever wondered about the benefits that the humble apple has for the health? Apples are steeped in nutrients, in fact, they are scientifically known to be full of minerals and vitamins that are beneficial for the body. Additionally, apples contain plenty of antioxidants including polyphenols, flavonoids and vitamin C that protect the body against a number of viruses, illnesses and harmful bacteria. Moreover, apples also contain beta carotene, an antioxidant that has anti-cancer and anti-cholesterol properties. Apart from that, beta carotene is also an exceptional source of B-complex vitamins like pyridoxine, thiamine, and riboflavin.
Benefits of Apples For Health
Contains Anti-Cancer and Anti-Cholesterol Properties
Apples are one of the best fruits that contain potent anti-cancer properties. Apples contain compounds that protect the body from cancerous cells. Studies have shown that the consumption of flavonoid-rich apples could lower the risk of pancreatic cancer by up to 23 percent. And that’s not all, apple peels also contain anti-cancer compounds. On a side note, studies have found that colorectal cancer can be kept at bay with the intake of fibres. Fortunately, apples are rich in fibre. The soluble fibres in apples compete with fats in the intestine and, in turn, decreases the absorption of LDL low-density lipoprotein (bad cholesterol) levels and increases the absorption of HDL high-density lipoprotein (good cholesterol) in the blood.
Boosts Immunity
Because apples contain an antioxidant known as quercetin. This antioxidant boosts the immune system to build the body’s natural defences. And that’s not all, that antioxidants in apples work to fight free radicals in the body and prevent oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is associated with premature ageing including the onset of wrinkles, fine lines and age spots. Oxidative stress is also linked with chronic conditions and even certain cancers. The other nutrient that is present in apples is vitamin C. Besides supporting the immune system, vitamin C also contains anti-inflammatory properties. In addition to vitamin C, the fibres in apple also work to enhance the immune system. This is the main reason why apples are considered to be high immunity boosters.
Prevents Alzheimer’s
Studies have shown that people who consume more apples tend to less susceptible to neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s. When a patient suffers from Alzheimer’s the nerve cells in the brain are damaged. However, the flavonoids in apple juice go a long way in aiding the repair against damaged cells. Hence, drinking apple juice has been found to not only lower the risk of Alzheimer’s but also combat and delay the overall decline of brain cells, especially age-related decline.
Benefits Of Apples For Skin
Besides having numerous benefits for health, apples also contain innumerable benefits for the skin.
Brighten and Lighten Complexion
Studies have shown that apples are one of the best fruits to eat to boost and maintain the overall health of your skin. These humble fruits have the potential to brighten, lighten and soothe the skin. This is largely because apples have the highest content of elastic and collagen. This essentially means that consuming more apples will keep your skin youthful and flawless.
Hydrates Skin
You may have known that the human body is made up of 70 percent water. Hence, it goes without saying that water is crucial for maintaining the health of our skin. In addition to keeping skin hydrated and plump, apples help to retain the skin’s natural moisture levels and prevent excessive moisture loss. If you suffer from dry skin, cutting a slice of apple and applying its juice on your face until the slice dries up will aid in balancing the oil production in the body. Apples will work as a natural hydrating mask. But that’s not all, you can also use apple slices as an exfoliant.
Contains Anti-Ageing Benefits
Besides hydrating and brightening the overall complexion of the skin, apples are extremely effective at lifting dull and wrinkled skin. In fact, regular consumption of apples works to eliminate wrinkles and fine lines. Rubbing grated apple on your face every once or twice a week for 10 to 20 minutes will drastically improve your complexion. Doing this will eliminate wrinkles and prevent signs of ageing such as fine lines and age spots.
Contains UV Protection
Apples are truly wondrous. They are one of the fruits out there that are potent enough to provide the skin with adequate protection from the sun. Apples also contain UVB defending particles that provide the skin with extra protection from the harmful effects of the sun’s rays. They can also treat sunburns and prevent skin from peeling. If you spent a little too much time frolicking in the sun without proper sun protection, here’s what you can do. Blend a teaspoon of glycerin with pulp from some grated apple. Thereafter, apply this mixture on your skin and leave for approximately five minutes before rinsing your face with cold water.