Read by Michael Flamel

In the crisp, refreshing days of Autumn, there’s perhaps no fruit more emblematic of the season than the humble apple. Whether bobbing for them at harvest festivals or biting into a perfectly ripe one on a cool afternoon, apples are a timeless symbol of the changing seasons. We find ourselves turning toward this familiar fruit every Fall, basking in its comforting presence and iconic status. But beyond their nostalgic ties to apple picking and pies, apples hold a deeper significance—one rooted in centuries of tradition, medicine, and nutrition.

The well-known saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” is far more than an old wives’ tale. Throughout history, apples have been celebrated not only for their delightful taste but also for their impressive array of health benefits. From ancient times, apples were revered as a natural remedy, used to treat ailments and promote overall well-being. Indigenous cultures and early settlers alike prized the apple for its versatility in the kitchen and its potential to nourish and heal.

Apples are nutritional powerhouses, packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that contribute to heart health, digestive well-being, and even reduced risk of chronic diseases. Rich in vitamin C, apples help bolster the immune system, while their high fiber content supports gut health and aids in weight management. Moreover, apples contain polyphenols—powerful plant compounds known for their role in reducing inflammation and improving cardiovascular health. And let’s not forget their low-calorie, hydrating properties, making them the perfect snack for any season.

But beyond their scientific benefits, apples represent a cultural and culinary tradition that has been passed down through generations. Whether they’re baked into a warm pie, pressed into fresh cider, or enjoyed right off the tree, apples have a way of bringing people together. So while the old adage suggests that an apple a day keeps the doctor away, it’s clear that this versatile fruit does so much more. In every bite, we connect to centuries of wisdom and the health-giving power of nature’s simple gifts.

The apple packs a lot of healthy power in a small package! Rich in antioxidants and fiber, apples can protect your heart, increase good (HDL) cholesterol, lower your blood pressure, protect against cancer, and help control blood sugar. The vitamin C in apples helps boost your immune system and helps neutralize free radicals in your body. And your body can’t store vitamin C, so you need to be sure to get your daily requirement.

Here are some of the other ways apples contribute to good health.

Heart Health

Heart disease is the most common form of death worldwide. Consumption of fruits high in vitamin C, like apples, has been linked to reduced heart disease.

Vitamin C also contributes to lower incidences of stroke, especially among people who are overweight or have high blood pressure. The fiber in apples helps lower blood pressure, which is good news for the heart. The fiber can also help decrease blood cholesterol levels. The flavonoids in apples may help reduce the risk of stroke.

Brain Health

Several studies indicate that a plant-based diet may be able to prevent dementia. A six-year study showed better brain health in those people who ate more fresh fruits and vegetables and less fatty and processed foods.

Cancer Fighter

The cancer-fighting antioxidants in apples are linked to lower risk of some cancers. An apple or more a day appears to lower the risk of colorectal cancer more than any other fruit. Be sure to eat the apple with the peel on; the peel is where most of the antioxidants are.

Lower Diabetes Risk

Researchers have found a strong link between people who eat an apple (or more) a day and a significantly lower risk of type 2 diabetes than in people who don’t eat an apple a day. Scientists say the fiber in apples helps stabilize your blood sugar.

Immune System Health

Apples may help support a healthy immune system. One study showed that the soluble fiber like that found in apples can change the function of some immune cells from supporting inflammation to fighting it. Apples are also packed with immune system-supporting vitamin C, which helps strengthen the body against infection.

Weight Loss & Digestive Health

Apples contain both soluble and insoluble fiber; the insoluble fiber is what makes you feel full—it also helps with healthy digestion. Studies have shown that eating an apple before a meal helped participants feel fuller and as a result, they ate less. Some of the compounds in apples feed good gut bacteria to support digestion.

Dental Health

Apples have been called nature’s toothbrush because of the way the texture of the apple can help clean your teeth. Eating an apple also triggers the production of saliva, which can help lower the level of bacteria in your mouth.

Skin Health

The vitamin C in apples may contribute to healthier skin—reducing the development of wrinkles and contributing to more hydrated skin and fewer blemishes.

Did you know that apples are so healthful? Please tell us what you like most about apples by commenting below.