Botanical name

Malus domestica

Vitamins and Minerals

• Vitamin A
• Vitamin B1, B2, B6
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Vitamin K
• Potassium
• Manganese
• Copper
• Polyphenols
• Fiber

Health Benefits

• Good for you gut. They may have prebiotic effects that are good for you gut bacteria.
• Protect your lungs. Antioxidant-rich apples may help protect your lungs from oxidative damage.
• Immune system and anti-inflammatory. Apple skin contains the flavonoid quercetin, which can help regulate the immune system and reduce inflammation.
• Improved brain and muscle function. Apples are full of catechin, which is an antioxidant. Catechin has been shown to improve brain and muscle function in animal studies.
• Lowers blood sugar. They contain chlorogenic acid which has been found to lower blood sugar and cause weight loss in some studies.
• Lower cholesterol. Fiber-rich foods can help lower your cholesterol.

Quick Tip

The skin contains half of the fiber and many of the polyphenols.

Description and History

Due to the popularity of the apple, there are many different types of apples available. Their popularity also means that apple trees are cultivated worldwide and are the most widely grown species in the genus Malus.

The apple tree originated in Central Asia where its wild ancestor, Malus sieversii is still found today. Apples have been grown for thousands of years in Asia and Europe and were brought to North America by European colonists.

Storage

Most types of apples can be held for approximately two weeks when kept in the coolest part of the refrigerator (below 40 °F). Some can be stored up to a year without significant degradation. Some varieties of apples, such as Granny Smith and Fuji have more than three times the storage life of others.

Quick Tip

To keep sliced apples from turning brown dip them in citrus, pineapple juice, or a crushed vitamin C tablet that has been dissolved in a little water.

Flavor Profile

The apple has its own unique flavor, which lends itself to being a flavor description in its own right. “It tastes like apple.” Green apples tend to be more sour, while red apples tend to be mostly sweet.

Pairs Well With

• Cinnamon
• Almond
• Caramel
• Peanut butter
• Vanilla
• Ginger
• Star anise

Popular Uses

• Eaten raw as the perfect snack.
• Included as a highlight in many desserts such as good ‘ole apple pie, apple crumble, apple crisp, baked apples and apple strudel.
• Used in making apple cider and apple cider vinegar.

The old adage, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” appears to be true. There are many health benefits of this popular fruit.

References

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apple
• https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/apples
• https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/267290.php

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