Apples Contain Antioxidants that Protect us from Cancer, Cardiovascular Diseases, Asthma, Diabetes and Obesity

Several in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that the flavonoids present in apples can protect us from a range of chronic diseases. Epidemiologic research has associated apple consumption with lower risks of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, asthma, and type 2 diabetes. Additionally, apples contribute to improving the right functioning of the lungs, while aiding us to fight against obesity.

Apples are a fabulous source of powerful flavonoids – antioxidant compounds that combat the harmful effects of free radicals. Among all fruits, apples seem to hold the second place in the top of fruits with high antioxidant activity. Cranberries are placed at the top, followed by apples, strawberries, purple grapes, peaches, lemons, pears, bananas, oranges, grapefruit and pineapple. Apples are also filled with powerful phenolic compounds.

Cancer

Several studies have associated apple consumption with approximatively 50 percent lower risks of pulmonary cancer, particularly in women. The explanation is that apples are rich in flavonoids and other similar compounds.

Other studies have found a connection between the consumption of fruits and vegetables rich in flavonoids and a lower occurrence of developing respiratory and digestive cancer and tumors.

Cardiovascular diseases

Studies have shown that regular apple consumption can significantly reduce the risks of developing cardiovascular diseases by 35 percent. Apple consumption has been linked to the prevention of vascular accidents, and the decrease of mortality caused by coronary causes.

Asthma

Dutch researchers have discovered that apples have a positive impact on the right functioning of the lungs as well. A recent study, developed by Australians on 1.600 adults, indicated that apple and pear consumption reduced the risks of asthma and lung hypersensitivity.

Other studies pointed that flavonoids, selenium and oranges diminish the incidence of asthma.

Diabetes and weight loss

Besides the fact that apples contribute to reducing the risks of cancer, heart disease, and asthma, they also embody a positive impact concerning diabetes and weight loss. A Finnish study, conducted on 10.000 persons, indicated that a regular apple intake significantly decreases the risks of type 2 diabetes. Quercetin – the main compound found in the peels of the apples is particularly associated with a lower risk of diabetes.

A study developed in Brasil showed that women who ate apples and pears on a regular basis lost weight, compared to another group of women who ate oat biscuits.

A Finnish study pinpointed a strong link between the flavonoids found in apples and the decrease of mortality.