Why an apple a day may actually keep the doctor away

We’ve all heard of the adage, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” The original phrase was, “Eat an apple on going to bed, and you’ll keep the doctor from earning his bread.” There have been many iterations of this popular saying, but the meaning behind it remains the same: apples do a body good. 62200725_S

Turns out that apples are incredibly beneficial. In fact, you can even find apples in some of the traditional medicine from southern Asia some 1,500 years ago!

Especially during the winter, when apples of all varieties are plentiful, why not enjoy one a day? Here are some benefits you can expect.

1. Apples are filled with vitamins. You can find a pretty good dose of vitamins C (for immunity and body tissues), B6 (for brain development and function) and A (for vision and immunity).

2. They’ll help contribute to your daily fiber intake. If you want to keep your cholesterol low and your digestive health high, apples can help you do just that due to their soluble fiber. Fiber is for more than digestive health and helps to reduce the risk of heart disease, obesity and diabetes.

3. Apples act as a toothbrush. Apples naturally clean teeth and kill bacteria in your mouth, which helps you avoid tooth decay. Tooth decay can affect other organs in your body, like your heart.

4. They are chock-full of antioxidants. Antioxidants may help lower your risk of cancer, infection and other diseases.

5. Apples contain important minerals. Apples contain their fair share of calcium (for strong bones), iron (for oxygen transport to the blood) and potassium (for consistent blood pressure).

Did you know that the skin of the apple is the most nutritious part? If you want to absorb all of the nutrients you possibly can from this fine fruit, keep the peel on and enjoy!