What’s Up with Apples?
There are over 7,500 varieties of apples. Only about 2,500 of those are grown in the United states and of those about 100 are grown commercially. In the U.S. most are still picked by hand in the fall from orchards averaging over 50 acres. Total production in the United States in 2005 was 234.9 million cartons valued at $1.9 billion. Although there are many varieties, they all have the same health benefits. Here are some facts that might impress you!
Peels are Worth Eating
Pectin is the soluble fiber found in the peel of the apple. Two-thirds of the fiber in apples and lots of antioxidants are found in the peel. Antioxidants help to reduce damage to cells, which in turn can reduce disease triggers. Recent research indicates pectin improves immunity and gut health.
3 Apples a Day Keep the Doctor away
People have been enjoying apples since about 6500 B.C., but recent studies have linked them and apple products such as juice to helping with the following health issues:
- Healthy weight
- Improved brain health/diminishing symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease
- Cancer prevention (prostate, colon, breast, bowel, pancreatic, and liver cancers)
- Reduced risk of heart disease and cardiovascular disease
- Type-2 diabetes prevention
- Improved asthma symptoms and other lung conditions
Although the adage was always “an apple a day, keeps the doctor away,” research shows eating more than one per day has a more significant impact on the above health issues.
Keep Them Fresher Longer
Apples last longer when they are refrigerated. If you are buying in bulk, store them in the fridge to keep them fresh six to ten times longer than storing them at room temperature.
Stop into The Citrus Tree Market to stock up on fruits and vegetables, and visit usapple.org for more information about apples!