May 1, 2010

An apple a day...really does keep the Dr. away.

Many may or may not know that two months ago I turned over a new leaf and made a choice to start slimming down, getting in shape and eating better. Diving into the world of wacko diet fads I've found that true healthy living comes from eating good old fashion fruits and veggies, with the right kinds of meat thrown in, and exercise. No magic bullets, potions, pills, or easy solutions, just sheer determination.

I've started educating myself in nutrition and studying healthier types of foods out there I was quite surprised by what I discovered about apples. In case you didn't know here are some interesting facts about apples:

Apples originated in Asia and are one of the most widely cultivated tree fruits with over 7500 known varieties. China is the world's largest producer of apples followed by the United States, Iran, Turkey, Russia, Italy, India.

Vitamins and Minerals Contained In Apples:
  • Flavonoids (i.e. antioxidants)
  • Beta-carotene (an immune booster and also gets converted to vitamin A)
  • Vitamin B
  • Vitamin C (the more tart the higher the vitamin C content)
  • Boron (thought to improve the body's absorption of calcium and magnesium)
  • Calcium
  • Phosphorous ( for bone formation, digestion, excretion, protein formation, hormone balance, energy extraction, cell repair, chemical reactions, and nutrient utilization)
  • Potassium
  • Silicon (for strengthening connective tissues and bones as well as taking care of nails, skin, and hair)
  • Pectin (soluble fiber for improved digestion)
Health Benefits of Apples:
  • Promote good digestion, reduce colon inflammation thereby improving both diarrhea and constipation
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Stabilize blood sugar levels (good for both diabetes and hypoglycemia)
  • Reduce arthritis pain
  • Reduce morning sickness
  • Improve asthma
  • Prevent hardening of the arteries
  • Prevent skin diseases
  • Improve liver and gallbladder sluggishness
  • Stimulate salive flow
  • Clean your teeth
  • Stimulate gum tissues
  • Lubricate the lungs
  • Cleans the lymphatic system
  • Aid in weight loss
  • Neutralize the effects of smoking
  • Curb cravings for alcohol
  • Lower cholesterol
  • Prevention of dementia
  • Decrease the risk of many types of cancer
Pretty amazing piece of fruit. Little did you know that an apple a day really does keep doctor away!

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