5 Surprising Health Benefits of Apples

5 AMAZING Health Benefits of Eating Apples — Plus, Easy Recipes to Try

(AscendHealthy.com) – Grabbing some fresh fruit on the go is a great way to enjoy a quick, healthy snack. Apples are a very popular treat throughout the late summer and fall harvest months, but we can enjoy them year-round. Not only are they tasty by themselves or in a delectable salad, but apples also have many surprising health benefits. Check out what this fruit can do to boost health and immunity!

1. Boost Heart Health

Apples are low-fat food dense in beneficial nutrients like fiber and potassium. They can be part of a heart-healthy diet and may contribute to losing weight. In a nutshell, apples are filling and help us feel less hungry.

They’re so good for our hearts because they contain soluble fiber, which helps keep cholesterol levels in check. Loaded with antioxidants, especially the peel, apples can lower blood pressure and help reduce stroke risk. Try making a healthy apple and walnut salad to boost heart health.

2. Lower Diabetes Risk

Diabetes is a disease of blood sugar control. The body either does not make enough insulin or doesn’t make it properly in certain individuals. Over 88 million people have prediabetes, and 84% don’t know it. Keeping tabs on our diabetic status is crucial because things like weight loss, medication and changes in diet can delay the development of the disease.

Apples may also help reduce the risk. One study noted eating an apple a day or just a few times a week if you have fluctuating sugar levels may help ward off diabetes. Create a tasty start to the day! This healthy crockpot apple oatmeal recipe may help stabilize blood sugar.

3. Promote Good Gut Health

Our stomachs contain good bacteria, and they need the right nutrients to counteract the unhealthy bacteria. We nurture friendly, healthful bacteria by supplying our guts with prebiotics, allowing them to outgrow the bad varieties. Apples supply one of the more nutritional forms of prebiotic fiber our stomachs need to promote a healthier digestive system. In turn, healthy gut microbiota may help improve metabolic health, prevent weight gain, improve immunity and promote better mental health.

Consider dipping apple slices in yogurt with probiotics, or try this apple & walnut yogurt parfait for better gut health.

4. Boost Bone Health

As we age, bone health becomes more concerning. Body structure changes, and weight fluctuates too. Consuming apples as part of a heart-healthy diet may help boost bone density and overall health. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties found in fruit can keep bone density intact or prevent further damage.

Try baked apples with a scoop of vanilla frozen yogurt to help boost bone health.

5. May Ward Off Cancer

Incorporating apples into daily snacks and meals may reduce the risk of developing some forms of cancer. Cancer is one of the leading causes of death globally. While there are many risks involved with developing cancer, it’s key to integrate preventative measures daily to minimize the chances. Start with a healthy diet.

Apples have extraordinary antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects due to the fiber content and polyphenol compounds found in the fruit. Snacking on this sweet fruit may help reduce the overall risk of developing cancer or slow it from spreading in the body.

Check out this Fruity Apple Salad recipe for a powerful punch of antioxidants.

Other Ways to Enjoy Apples

There are a number of delicious ways to make apples a regular part of our diets. Check out these recipes:

Apples are one of the most versatile fruits around. We can eat this fruit fresh or cooked in a variety of ways. We can store apples on a countertop, in the refrigerator, or even freeze cubed or sliced apples for later use. They are generally easy on the pocketbook and easy to access almost everywhere. The best part? They are like a superfood for the body! No matter how we prepare them, apples are a healthy, tasty treat that’s naturally good.

~Here’s to Your Healthy Ascension