With summer coming to an end and autumn approaching, it’s apple season! Besides being delicious, apples are extremely nutritious. Here are just a few of the reasons why an apple a day really does keep the doctor away:
Brain Food – Apples have been shown to help prevent neurological disorders like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
Boosts Immune System – High in antioxidants, apples can keep you healthier and safer from a wide variety of illness.
Prevents Cancer – Researchers have identified compounds in apples that can prevent cancer growth in the colon, breast and liver.
Whiter Teeth – The act of biting and chewing an apple increases the saliva in your mouth, which reduces tooth and gum decay.
Decrease the Risk of Diabetes – Apples are full of soluble fiber, which helps control blood sugar swings. A recent study found that women who ate an apple a day were almost 30% less likely to develop type 2 Diabetes.
While a crisp, raw apple is perfect by itself, we’ve got a great recipe for applesauce that you should try. There’s no added sugar, just a little cinnamon and all the natural sweetness of the apples themselves. Add this to warm oatmeal, spread on a bran muffin, or eat with a spoon! Whichever way you choose to enjoy the health benefits of apples, you’ll be making healthy a healthy choice!
Homemade Applesauce
Homemade applesauce recipe & photo courtesy of Kim’s Healthy Eats
6 apples, peeled and chopped (your choice of apple, but I would avoid the tart varieties like Granny Smith)
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup water
Bring all ingredients to a boil over a stovetop. Cover with a lid and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the apples are soft. Remove from heat and either blend in a food processor or mash with a potato masher.
