5 Surprising Health Benefits of Apples

Since the popular expression “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” was coined ~150 years ago,  numerous benefits have indeed surfaced making apples among the healthiest and most readily available foods throughout the year.  In fact,  Fuji apples continue to be my favorite mid-afternoon pick-me-up snack.

But did you know that apples have important health benefits?   Here are 5 to chew on.

1. Mouth Hygiene: speaking of chewing, apples contain malic acid which stimulates saliva production and keeps harmful bacteria at bay.  The result,  healthier teeth and gums.  But be careful because too much malic acid may lead to erosion of enamel;  an apple a day represents a “sweet spot” for good oral hygiene.
2. Mood and Energy Booster: apples contain the mineral boron and a single apple each day can boost mood, energy levels and overall brain function.
3. Lowers LDL cholesterol: apples are a rich source of pectin,  a soluble fiber with cholesterol lowering properties.  One apple daily can reduce LDL (the bad cholesterol) 5-10% .  The trick is that you need to eat the skin to derive the benefit (so make sure the apples are soaked and/or washed well prior to eating; unless they were grown in a pesticide free environment).
4. Improves Vascular Health: apples contain the powerful antioxidant quercetin, associated with reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. Other antioxidants in apples reduce blood pressure and improve vascular health. An apple a day may also reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
5. Reduces “Apple Shape”: compared to pear-shaped, having an apple-shape or  belly fat distribution, is concerning because this type of fat is metabolically charged and inflammatory fat that over time, raises the risk of metabolic syndrome, diabetes and heart disease. Ironically, eating apples as part of an overall program aimed at improving weight management leads to weight loss , diminution of the apple shape and improvement in overall metabolic health.
6. Dr. Michael Miller is a cardiologist and Professor at the University of Maryland School of Medicine.  His latest book is: “Heal Your Heart: The Positive Emotions Prescription to Prevent & Reverse Heart Disease“