Apples aren’t just for snacking, they are also a superfood. Plus there are many ways in which you can use apples to not only improve your health but life too. Apples come in so many varieties so the choices are endless. So be sure to find an apple that you are sure to love. It doesn’t matter what variety you choose because they all have many benefits. Apples are full of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. Thus try to eat an apple a day, and find out why it’s keeping the doctor away….
1. LOWERS CHOLESTEROL
Apples in themselves help lower cholesterol. Except they taste much much better by adding them to oatmeal. Oatmeal and apples both have loads of fiber. So when you combine these two they turn into an awesome breakfast. They are specifically great sources of soluble fibre. That soaks up water, and rids extra toxins and cholesterol in the body. You can use steel cut oats or rolled oats for the oatmeal. To that oatmeal you would add a cup of apples or a couple tablespoons of good ol’ applesauce.
2. PRETTY SKIN
Due to the fact that apples are full of vitamin C, they keep your skin supplied with a top nutrient. The vitamin C in apples helps clear up your skin, and keep it soft and smooth. Vitamin C is a nutrient that manufactures collagen. Collagen in the body is important as it aids in keeping your skin bright, free from sun damage, and fine lines like wrinkles. Pair apples with some almonds or almond butter. Almonds also contain a great nutrient known as vitamin E which will further help improve the skin, body and overall health. Apples combined with the fat in almonds help the body absorb the antioxidants much better, because there is some fat included.
3. FIGHTS CONSTIPATION
You have to admit it, we have all been through constipation. And it is no fun. However, lucky for you apples are much better than laxatives that will make you feel better in no time. They are easy and more natural, with zero side effects. Add apples diced or sliced to anything even a simple salad. Since salads are already good for constipation make sure you leave off any cheesy or dairy dressings. A really great salad combo is apples, tomatoes, strawberries, cranberries, almonds, green peas or chickpeas (hummus will do), grated carrots, lemon juice, and some salt/pepper on top of a fresh bed of greens like spinach, arugula, or kale. This will fix your constipation that same day in a couple of hours.
4. KEEPS YOU FULL
There are many people who are suffering with weight problems. However, instead of starving yourself or going in a strict diet, opt for a smoothie with an added apple to keep you full. In addition, you will have the proper meal proportions too. You can use a Fuji variety. For a sweeter flavour use gala, or golden delicious. For a tart flavour you would use Granny Smith. For a mix of both red delicious apples are a favourite. The pectin in apples which is basically it’s fibre will go and swell in your stomach. However, this will not bloat you. Instead, it adds a yummy flavour to smoothies, which keeps you full longer.
5. BOOST MOOD AND ENERGY
Apples are a favourite all over the world to munch on as a snack. The are especially great to have at work, or in school. The antioxidants in apples improve your mood quickly. Thus you get a spike in energy. Apples contain water as well as natural sugars that actually break down slowly. Due to the fact that they break down slowly the slow integration of carbs in your bloodstream allow that energized feeling that lasts hours, even though you get a spike form the sugars.
So there you have it, apples are A-making. So instead of having coffee try to have an apple or two instead, and see what the results are for you when your in a sluggish state. No matter how you eat your apples they will always have the best health effects. So next time you hit the grocery store be sure to pick these babies up. Also try to of course ‘eat an apple a day!’