It's that wonderful time of year again, when we can step into our jeans and wrap ourselves in thick, cozy sweaters while holding a deliciously warm mug of Apple Cider! It is September, prime time for the lovely festivity of Apple Picking! Apples are refreshing, tasty, low in calories but what else do they bring to the table to help keep our families healthy?
According to Readers Digests, mega selling health book; Foods That Harm, Foods That Heal; Apples have the power to deliver the following health benefits..
The following salad recipe from Kraft Kitchens is an easy and delicious way to take in your daily apple serving..
According to Readers Digests, mega selling health book; Foods That Harm, Foods That Heal; Apples have the power to deliver the following health benefits..
- Stave off Alzheimers disease- The powerful antioxidant quercetin found in apples has been seen to protect brain cells from degeneration in rats and could possibly do the same for humans.
- Protect against Colon Cancer- "When the natural fiber in apples ferments in the colon, it produces chemicals that help fight the formation of cancer cells, according to recent research in Germany."
- Apples can keep you "regular" (bowel wise) as well as help eliminate loose stools as part of the BRAT diet (Bananas, Rice, Apples and Toast)
- Prevent High Blood Pressure- According to a recent data base analysis, those who eat apples are 37% less likely to develop hypertension.
- Help to keep you slim- This is because apples are packed with fiber and water and they help keep you full.
- Even out your blood sugar-"Apples are loaded with soluble fiber which slows the digestion of food and thus the entry of glucose into the bloodstream."
- Fend off Heart disease if you eat the skin- Apples are high in flavanoids which are found in the skin and can protect the heart.
- Fight High Cholesterol- Apples are high in soluble fiber pectin, which in turn can help lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and reduce your risk of artery damage.
- Boost Dental health- Reduces tooth decay by prompting an increased flow of saliva and therefore lowering levels of bacteria in the mouth.
The following salad recipe from Kraft Kitchens is an easy and delicious way to take in your daily apple serving..
- Mixed salad greens tossed with crisp apple slices
- toasted walnuts
- dried cranberries
- drizzle with a sweet-tart raspberry dressing.
Heading to a local orchard for apple picking is a great fall activity where you will get fresh air and exercise as you walk up and down the many rows of apples!