Not only are apples delicious, but they also have many health benefits. What nutrients do they contain and how do they affect health?
Vitamin C Bombs: The Health Benefits of Apples
An apple is filled with vitamins A, B1, B2 and C. The vitamin C content is particularly noteworthy. A large apple (around 200 g) can cover almost a third of your daily needs. Local apple varieties in particular are rich in vitamin C.
Apples are also rich in minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, magnesium and iron.
Particularly noteworthy is the high pectin content in the apple peel. Pectin is a soluble fiber that fills you up.
Since apples have a high fiber content, they can help you lose weight. That’s why you shouldn’t peel apples, otherwise up to 70 percent of the nutrients will be lost. A study from the USA found that dried apple rings had the highest pectin content. In addition, 100 g of apples only contain 60 kcal.
Here are five good reasons to eat an apple every day.
1. Support gut health
Apples are good for the intestines. They are particularly helpful for intestinal problems as vitamins such as vitamin A, vitamin C, B vitamins, niacin and folic acid are good for intestinal function.
2. Lower cholesterol levels
The pectin contained in apples lowers cholesterol levels because it binds harmful substances and flushes them out of the body.
3. Reduce the risk of cancer
Thanks to the flavonoids and carotenoids contained in the pulp, apples have an antioxidant effect. This can help reduce the risk of cancer.
4. Prevent respiratory and lung diseases
Studies have shown that people who regularly eat apples are less likely to suffer from respiratory and lung diseases. So if you are often affected by it, you can prevent it by eating apples regularly.
5. Promote dental health
Apples are often referred to as “natural chewing gum” because their fruit acids and fiber have a cleaning effect on teeth.
In addition to these long-term health benefits, apples can also be used as acute therapy, making them a popular home remedy for various illnesses and infections.
Apples as a healthy home remedy
Apples can be effective against diarrhea. Simply grate a raw apple including the peel.
An apple in the morning can help with morning sickness during pregnancy.
Apple cider vinegar is recommended for sore throats and throat infections. To do this, mix a glass of hot water (approx. 300 ml) with a tablespoon of honey and a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar.
A fried apple with honey is not only delicious, but can also help against hoarseness.
Apple tea helps with nervousness. To do this, cut an apple with the peel and pour hot water over it. Then let the brew steep for two hours.
So apples are not only delicious, but also real health boosters.