Why We Eat Apples!!
There’s no doubt we are all enjoying the brisk air and gorgeous changing of the leaves. But what do we REALLY love here in Minnesota about the fall???
APPLES!!!
That’s right, we love our orchards and apples here in the great northern tundra. Apple pie, apple crisp, caramel apples or just right off the tree. But did you know your natural craving for this deliciousness could be benefitting your body?? Keep reading to see how...
Apples promote heart health in several ways. They’re high in soluble fiber, which helps lower cholesterol. They also have polyphenols, which are linked to lower blood pressure and stroke risk.
The polyphenols quercetin and phloridzin (antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals in the body that cause damage to cells) contribute to lower risk of diabetes as well. Quercetin’s anti-inflammatory effects may reduce insulin resistance, a big risk factor for the onset of diabetes. Meanwhile, phloridzin is believed to reduce sugar uptake in the intestines, contributing to a reduced blood sugar load and thereby reduced diabetes risk.
Apples also contain pectin, a type of fiber that acts as a prebiotic. This means it feeds your gut microbiota, which is the good bacteria in your gut.
Apples are an incredibly nutritious fruit that offers multiple health benefits. Even though there’s always more research needed to better understand how apples affect human health, you can’t go wrong with this tasty, versatile, and easily accessible fruit.