Can an apple a day keep cancer away?

By Brandie Umar - Executive Director of Content | June 8th, 2010

According to research by the University of Wisconsin, the high levels of antioxidants found in apple peel could not only keep the doctor away by staving off routine colds and coughs, but could be beneficial in preventing serious illnesses. Tests conducted by the university supportd previous research and suggests that antioxidants derived from the peel of apples slow down the growth of cancer cells in breast cancer and prostate cancer.

That's a very goood reason to make an apple a day part of a healthy balanced diet. Here are some more reasons why apples are good for your health:

Apples protect bone health - Phloridzin, a flavanoid known for it's antioxidant properties, strengthens bone density and has been linked to protecting post-menopausal women from osteoarthritis.
Apples are full of vitamin C - Vitamin C boosts the immune system and is essential for tissue and muscle repair.
Apples can help prevent asthma attacks - Studies have shown that not only does eating apples help reduce the number of asthma attacks in children but pregnant women who regularly eat apples have children who are less likely to suffer from asthma and other allergies.
Apples can help prevent

bad cholesterol - phenols, a chemical contained in apples, lowers bad cholesterol and raises levels of good cholesterol. Lowering levels of bad cholesterol in the body reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and other heart problems.
Apples prevent tooth decay - eating apples reduces the harmful bacteria in your mouth by up to 70%, reducing the risk of tooth decay and other bacterial related dental problems.
Apples aid weight loss - not only are apples an excellent low calorie snack for people watching their weight but they also contain slow releasing natural sugars that can prevent sugar cravings
Apples provide crunch for the palate and delight to the senses - Eating crunchy textured, colourful, juicy foods helps stabilise mood, control stress-related eating problems and can help maintain a healthy, balanced diet