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 6-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.