The magic of the apple
08 Sep, 2014
One Fruit More Effective than Statins For Combating Cholesterol.
An apple a day may keep the cardiologist away, according to a research study conducted by Florida State University Scientists. In this USDA-funded study, a group of women were asked to eat 75g of dried apples per day. At the end of the 6-month follow up period, the apples dropped “bad” LDL cholesterol by 23%… This is comparable to cholesterol-lowering prescription medications like Lipitor.
The apple’s benefits went further than a simple reduction in cholesterol. Serial apple eaters found themselves with significantly lower levels of the pro-inflammatory protein CRP. The researchers state that the soluble fiber in the apples were likely responsible for the dramatic drop in bad cholesterol. Apples are also an abundant source of antioxidants, which also likely contributed to the reduction in inflammation that the subject’s experienced.
The myriad reported benefits of apple pectin support the old adage prescribing an apple a day. Apple pectin is linked to lower cholesterol, weight loss and a healthy digestive tract, cardiovascular system and normal blood-glucose level
Apple pectin is the naturally occurring fiber present in all varieties of apples. Pectin is in the fruit itself, not in apple juice. Other fruits contain pectin, but not in as rich a concentration. Of all apples, Jonagolds hold the top spot for the most apple pectin.
Benefits of the apple
In a 2008 study, researchers at the University of California-Davis concluded that apple pectin can lower cholesterol levels, reduce and prevent gallstones, promote a healthy digestive tract and regulate blood-sugar levels. The study showed apple pectin is also an antioxidant.
Effects
Eating apples and apple products may reduce the risk of high blood pressure, weight gain and colon cancer, according to a 1999-2004 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. People who regularly consumed apples and apple products were significantly less likely to develop hypertension, cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Features
One raw apple a day is enough to reap the benefits of apple pectin. Raw apples are the best source. A medium apple contains about 80 calories and 4 grams of fiber.
