10 Health Benefits of Apples

Apple, one of the most common fruits in the American diet, is a host of health benefits to the human body. The old saying, "an apple a day keeps the doctor away," has a ring of truth to it.
Cancer: Apples can possibly help in the fight against cancer, at least by helping to lower your own risks of cancer. How? Apples contain quercetin, an anti-oxidant, that helps to prevent cell damage in the body that can lead to cancer. So having an apple a day can’t hurt.
Asthma: A couple of studies provide evidence that apples help to combat asthma and its symptoms. One study suggested that women who eat apples during pregnancy are less likely to have babies who suffer from asthma. Another study suggested that drinking apple juice at least a couple of times a month helped children with breathing problems brought about by asthma.
Constipation: Apples have lots of natural fiber, especially in their skins. This fiber helps with constipation problems by keeping the digestive tract running smooth.
Heart disease: Pectin is a soluble fiber found in apples, and pectin has been shown to help with a whole slew of problems that can bring about heart disease. Pectin builds up in the digestive tract, helping to lower cholesterol levels and decreasing the risks of heart attack and stroke.
Alzheimers: No, apples can’t cure Alzheimers, but one study has shown that the natural chemicals and vitams in apples help to protect the brain from neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimers, possibly even Parkinsons disease.
Teeth: Yes, apples are good for your teeth and gums. The natural acidic properties of apples help to keep the teeth clean and your breath smelling better. The sturdiness of apples also helps to strengthen teeth and gums, allowing for a brighter smile.
Skin: Apples are even good for your skin, fighting bad UV rays, keeping the skin clean and fresh and young looking. It’s the elastin and collagen in apples that are best for the skin, and the two types of apples with the most of these properties are Granny Smith and Red Delicious. Eating apples is good for the skin, but for a more direct approach you can make your own apple sauce or apple face mask at home and apply it to your skin. To do this, chop and smash apples into a sauce, then add some honey and oatmeal.
Sunburn: Since apples are good for the skin, it’s natural they also are good for dealing with the pains of sunburn. Smash some apple pulp, mix in just a little glycerine, then apply it to the skin for at least fifteen minutes. Wash away with cold water. This will help to sooth your burnt skin.
Blood sugar: This one is especially good to know for diabetics. If your blood sugar gets low and you’re starting to feel bad, grab an apple and start chomping. The natural sugars in apples help to regular blood sugar levels.
Weight loss: Apples taste good. And they’re made up of 80 percent water. What better treat for helping to lose weight? Apples also have plenty of fiber, are low in calories, and have next to no natural sodium or fat. You can’t beat that for a diet food!