An Apple a Day: And Much More

An apple a day keeps the doctor away" is an old Welsh proverb that most of us are familiar with, but what makes this fruit so special? What health benefits are associated with eating apples? As one of the most cultivated and consumed fruits in the world, apples are continuously being praised as a "miracle food". Apples are extremely rich in important antioxidants, flavanoids, and dietary fiber. The phytonutrients and antioxidants in apples may help reduce the risk of developing cancer, hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease. Apples are good for neurological health. The fruit contains an antioxidant called "quercetin" which reduces cellular death caused by oxidation and inflammation of neurons. There is growing evidence suggesting that an apple a day may help prevent breast cancer.