5 ways apples help keep the doctor away

Protect your heart

Apples are a top source of quercetin, a plant chemical that seems to protect the lining of the blood vessels. Damage to that lining raises the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Boost fibre

The recommended intake of fibre for Canadian women is 25 grams daily (men should be getting 38 grams). But according to Dietitians of Canada, many Canadians are getting less than half the amount of fibre they should. The good news? Apples are loaded with soluble fibre: Just one medium apple packs four grams. But if you are increasing the amount of fibre you consume, it’s best if you do it gradually.

Fight type 2 diabetes

Apples are a low-glycemic food so they help control your blood sugar. In fact, researchers have discovered that women who eat at least one apple a day are almost one third less likely to develop type 2 diabetes than those who don’t eat apples.

Protect against various cancers

Many components of this fruit can help prevent certain cancers: natural pigments called anthocyanins; phenolic acids including ellagic and ferulic acids; the flavonoids quercetin and rutin; and the antioxidant glutathione.

Breathe easier

A British study found that people who ate more than five apples a week had improved lung function, less wheeziness and fewer asthma-like symptoms.

Related:
• 15 health benefits of eating apples
• Our best healthy apple recipes
• 8 of Canada’s healthiest apples