12 Surprising Health Benefits Of Apples You Probably Didn’t Know by: Tricia Drevets for Off The Grid News
We’ve all heard “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” but just how much truth is there to the old adage?
First, let’s look at the origin of that popular saying. According to Caroline Taggart, author of An Apple a Day: Old-Fashioned Proverbs and Why They Still Work, the saying originated in Wales with a slightly different wording. ‘‘Eat an apple on going to bed, and you’ll keep the doctor from earning his bread” was the similar statement first recorded in the 1860s. During the 19th century, the adage changed to “an apple a day sends the doctor away,” and then it morphed again in the 20th century into the phrase we know today.
Although the saying may have originated in modern times, the health benefits of apples have been known since ancient times. Apples were part of traditional Ayurvedic medicine in Southern Asia, dating back some 1,500 years, and historians believe that the Ancient Anglo-Saxons and Romans prized apples for their nutritional benefits.
Now is your chance to support Gospel News Network.
We love helping others and believe that’s one of the reasons we are chosen as Ambassadors of the Kingdom, to serve God’s children. We look to the Greatest Commandment as our Powering force.
Apples are a good source of natural fiber, are low in calories and are a great source of Vitamin C. Here are 12 health benefits of apples.
1. Dental care. When you bite and chew an apple, you stimulate saliva production in your mouth, lowering the levels of bacteria there and reducing the chance for tooth decay.
2. Brain power. Apple consumption can boost levels of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the brain, aiding your cognitive function.
3. Nerve protection. The high fiber content and antioxidants found in fruits like apples may help protect against nerve disorders such as Parkinson’s Disease, which affects the central nervous system.
4. Reduced risk for certain cancers. Cancer researchers recommend a high fiber intake to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. In addition, apple peel contains compounds called triterpenoids that may help limit the growth of cancer cells in the colon, liver and breast.
5. Lower risk of diabetes. The soluble fiber found in apples helps regulate blood sugar swings and may help protect against the onset of type 2 diabetes.
6. Lower cholesterol. That same high quantity of soluble fiber in apples helps your intestines and lowers your “bad” cholesterol levels. Lower cholesterol is good for your heart and aids in the prevention of other health issues, such as gallstones.
