According to health experts, eating apples regularly is extremely beneficial for health as they are rich in fiber and antioxidants.
Experts say that apples improve digestion, support heart health, and help in maintaining weight. They not only reduce the risk of heart diseases but also lower the chances of chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes.
A medium sized unpeeled apple weighing about 182 grams provides approximately 94.6 calories. It contains 156 grams of water, 0.473 grams of protein, 25.1 grams of carbohydrates, 18.9 grams of sugar, 4.37 grams of fiber, and 0.3 grams of fat.
Apples mainly consist of carbohydrates and water, and they contain several types of simple sugars, including fructose, sucrose, and glucose.
The glycemic index of apples is low to medium, ranging between 42 and 44. The glycemic index measures how much a food raises blood sugar levels after consumption. Foods with a low GI are considered healthy and beneficial.
A medium sized apple provides about 16% of the daily required fiber intake. The soluble fiber, pectin, helps control blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Most of the fiber in apples is found in the peel. Apples are also rich in vitamin C and potassium.
Apples contain many antioxidant plant compounds that offer additional health benefits. These include quercetin, found in many plant based foods, which helps reduce inflammation, fights viruses, and may help prevent cancer.
They also contain catechin, found in green tea, which boosts the body’s ability to produce energy. Additionally, chlorogenic acid, present in apples and coffee, may help lower blood sugar levels. Apples are also very beneficial for the digestive system, as the fiber in them helps reduce acidity.
However, apples are often exposed to pesticides because they are prone to insects and diseases, so they should be washed thoroughly before eating.
