How Do You Like Them Apples

“An apple a day keeps the doctor away”. This age-old saying speaks volumes about the health benefits of this amazing fruit. But how exactly can it be true?

This is one of main reasons why apples are such healthy treats! The fibers present inside them aid in regular digestion on top of regulating blood sugar levels and lowering cholesterol. A medium-sized apple provides 13-20% of an average person’s daily fiber needs. Plus, if you’re weight-watching, the fiber in an apple keeps you full for longer periods. So, the next time you feel an urge to have sugary snacks, pick up an apple—your tongue and tummy would like that very much!

If you’re looking to add more antioxidants to your diet, look no further beyond the humble apple. It contains flavonoids and polyphenols, two compounds that ward off harmful elements in the body, which can lead to preventing chronic conditions like heart disease or certain cancers. Apples also power up your brain, helping you retain memory better as you age.

In the rugged terrains of Pakistan, especially in Balochistan and Azad Kashmir, apples flourish. Varieties like Granny Smith, Red Delicious, and Golden Delicious not only offer delightful flavors but also come with numerous health benefits. The prime apple production season falls in December and January, during which farmers employ traditional techniques such as Tong and Clift drafting for cultivation.

Here’s a handy tip: when you’re buying apples in the market, picking out the best ones will rely on your skill to spot damaged skin and rotten spots. Give the apples a gentle squeeze—if they feel soft or mushy, those are the bad apples—don’t take them home.

Of course, there’s Vitamin C! A lot of citrus fruits can boast of their Vitamin C content, but apples can hold their own in that respect. An average person can have 9-11% of their daily Vitamin C needs just by munching on apples. You can also enjoy a good amount of Vitamin E and A for better skin from its skin. If you can, eat unpeeled apples as they contain the most amount of these vitamins.

Potassium joins the list of nutrients that keep doctor visits at a minimum. This helps maintain a healthy blood pressure, handy for those who are abundant in years.

There you have it! From their impressive nutrient profile to their antioxidants and fiber content, there are a plethora of reasons to enjoy this healthy treat. So, next time you reach for a snack, consider grabbing a delicious apple and enjoy the many advantages it brings to your lifestyle!

Sources:

1. Raheema, Rana. (2020). Apples and Health. 10.13140/RG.2.2.26052.04485. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/346970878_Apples_and_Health
2. Braganza, L. (2023, December 10). Apple farming: Can apple grow in the Philippines? Food Security. https://www.pinoyfoodsecurity.com/news-opinion/apple-farming-philippines/
3. The Diverse Fruits of Pakistan The Diverse Fruits of Pakistan