Apple are delicious, they are nutritious and a handful may even help keep doctor away. The season of apples is here and we can’t wait to have our fill of these juicy and crunchy wonders.
1. Good for Diabetics and Blood Sugar regulation
According to the book ‘Healing Foods’ by DK Publishing, the fructose (a class of sugar) and antioxidant polyphenols in apples improve the metabolic balance and slow the rate at which sugar is absorbed in the body. This property of apples is especially effective for diabetics, who have to keep their blood sugar spike in check. Experts have also suggested that apples lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes because of a class of antioxidants called Anthocyanin, that is also responsible for red, purple and blue colors in fruits and veggies.
2.Aids Weight Loss
Pectin fibre helps lower the body’s absorption of excess dietary fats.The rich quantum of fiber found in apples also helps you feeling full for longer. Bangalore based nutritionist Dr. Anju Sood says, “Fibre takes the longest to digest, which helps you keep satiated and prevents you from binging on other fattening and sugar laden foods. In the long run, this aids in weight loss."
3.Helps Relieve Constipation and Diarrhoea
The high concentration of pectin fibre not only aids digestion but also regulates smoother bowel movements. According to the book ‘Healing Foods’, “Pectin has an amphoteric action. Paradoxically, it can prove relief from both constipation and diarrhoea depending on body’s needs.”
4.Reduces Cholesterol
Pectin fibre and other constituents, such as antioxidant polyphenols have been linked to reducing the levels of “unhealthy”(LDL) cholesterol, and slow down its oxidation. This further helps reduce the risk of hardening of arteries, damaging heart muscles and blood vessels.
5.Protecting bones
Apples are also effective in strengthening bones and can play a crucial part in overall bone health. A certain favanoid phlorizin, found in apple skin, may help prevent bone loss associated with menopause, as it fights the inflammation and free radical production that leads to bone degeneration.