A version of the famous proverb “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” first appeared in the United States in 1866 in a New Hampshire-based magazine called Notes and Queries.
Though older iterations of it might exist in other parts of the world, few repeaters of the proverb in century’s past likely understood the full extent of just how beneficial to health apples really are.
But apples aren’t necessarily unique among other fruits in all of the health benefits they have to offer.
Are apples healthy?
There are many proven health benefits that come from eating apples.
A National Center for Biotechnology Information study, for instance, shows that regular apple consumption reduces one’s risk of developing lung cancer.
While sweetness levels can be subjective, Fuji apples are often considered the sweetest apple variety out there, followed by Gala, Honeycrisp, and Red Delicious.
Crisp, sweet, red, or green:Our visual guide to apple picking season this Fall
In 1866, the New Hampshire-based magazine Notes and Queries published the first American version of the well-known adage, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.”. Although there may be older versions of this proverb in other parts of the world, few people who repeated it a century ago probably realized how healthful apples actually are.
However, not all of the health advantages that apples have to offer are exclusive to them when compared to other fruits. It turns out that consuming almost any fruit or vegetable, in addition to other healthful foods, as part of a balanced diet, can also help prevent certain medical conditions.
Apples: Are they wholesome?
Eating apples is associated with numerous well-established health benefits. For example, a study by the National Center for Biotechnology Information demonstrates that eating apples on a regular basis lowers the risk of lung cancer. “Apples have been consistently linked to a lower risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes due to the presence of polyphenols,” says registered dietitian and chef Abbie Gellman of New York City. “Research has also shown that.”.
Flavonoids, which aid the body in warding off viruses and inflammation and have been linked to a lower risk of stroke, are another excellent nutrient found in apple peels.
According to Jill Weisenberger, MS, RDN, a registered dietician in Virginia and the author of “Prediabetes: A Complete Guide,” apples are also a great source of vitamin C, “which helps destroy free radicals before they can damage cell membranes, DNA, and other body components.”. She continues, saying that pectin, which is also present in apples, lowers LDL cholesterol levels.
“Practical nutritionist, registered dietitian, and founder of Abby Langer Nutrition Abby Langer states that apples are rich in antioxidants and fiber, which can help promote health and lower risk for disease.”. Moreover, they provide us with energy as they are high in carbohydrates.
Because apples are low in calories, satiating, and refreshing, eating one can help with healthy weight management. According to Weisenberger, eating an apple can also replace snacking on chips, ice cream, or doughnuts.
Is apple juice healthy for you? The newest debate on the internet is called “applejuiceification.”.
Compared to other fruits, are apples healthier?
It wouldn’t be accurate to say that apples are inherently “healthier” than other fruits, even with all their advantages. According to Weisenberger, “all fruits are nutritious, and the most nutritious diets will provide a large variety of fruits.”. She lists oranges’ higher vitamin C content, pears’ higher fiber content than apples’, and blueberries’ distinct polyphenol composition as some examples. “That is why it is best to eat a variety of foods,” she says.
As Langer concurs, you shouldn’t feel constrained if apples aren’t really your thing. She suggests, “Select any fruit you enjoy and eat it often.”.
Which apples have the most sweetness?
Per Washington State University research, you might be surprised to learn that over 7,500 different types of apples are grown worldwide. In the US, some of the most widely bought varieties are Granny Smith, Jonagold, Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Honeycrisp, Fuji, Gala, Macoum, and McIntosh.
Although one’s preference for sweetness may vary, Fuji apples are generally thought to be the sweetest apple variety available, with Gala, Honeycrisp, and Red Delicious coming in second and third. According to Gellman, Granny Smith apples are excellent for baking because they do not have as much sugar or tartness and maintain their shape.
Our illustrated guide to apple picking season this fall, whether they are crisp, sweet, red, or green.
