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Health and Happiness,


Stephanie : 0 )








Friday, February 10, 2012

An APPLE a day


Yes apples contain vitamin C so they can help boost immune health and keep you out of the doctor's office on a regular basis but they are also known to promote heart health.  Numerous studies have shown that eating  apples regularly can reduce LDL "lousy" cholesterol levels.  Particularly, a study from France included thirty middle-aged women and men who were asked to eat two to three apples a day.  By the end of the month, eighty percent of the group showed reduced cholesterol levels, and in half the group the drop was more than ten percent.  Additionally the level of HDL "healthy" cholesterol went up.  Pectin, a soluble fiber found in apples, is believed to play a major role in this. 

There are thousands of varieties of apples and can be eaten raw or cooked.  Apples can be enjoyed as a snack or added to any meal of the day in breakfast dishes, such as apples in oatmeal, main meals, salads, soups and desserts.

I read that most of the insecticides that are used on non-organic apples are stored in the core and seeds so these should be removed before cooking.

Apples cleanse and purify the blood.  They aid in digestion and can remove impurities from the liver.  They are a good source of vitamin C and fiber  - especially if you eat the skin. They are low in calories and are said to benefit those with skin problems and arthritis when eaten regularly.

Even though apples contain sugar and are considered a carbohydrate - for diabetics in particular - the polyphenols can help prevent spikes in blood sugar.  Flavonoids like quercin found in apples can inhibit particular enzymes that break down complex carbs into simple sugars so this means less simple sugars in your blood stream.

Apples are also known to exhibit anti-cancer and anti-asthma benefits. My favorite thing about apples is that they help to control overeating.  They make the perfect snack because they truly are filling and they pair well with a protein such as peanut butter, cheese or nuts.

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