| Amazing Apples
There are more than 7,000 varieties of apples cultivated worldwide! None are exactly alike in taste and appearance, but all share the same miraculous health benefits, such as protection against lung disease, cancer, stroke, diabetes and asthma. For decades, scientists tried to isolate apples’ health benefit. Is it their vitamin C content? Their fiber? Another yet-to-be-discovered disease-busting antioxidant? The truth, according to scientists from Cornell University, is that a combination of phytochemicals in apples — not a single vitamin or nutrient — keeps disease away (Nature 2000;405:903-4). Phytochemicals are plant chemicals that have disease-preventive properties. Apples contain a variety of phytochemicals all of which are strong antioxidants. Antioxidants reduce the number of damaging free-radical chemicals throughout the body. If available at your local market, opt for organic apples. Organic produce is grown without the use of pesticides. Non-organic fruits and vegetables often have pesticides and other chemical residues. Organic produce is especially important for children. Even more than adults, youngsters are especially susceptible to pesticide exposure. They often consume more fruits and vegetables per pound of body weight, and their rapidly developing minds and bodies make them more vulnerable to pesticides’ effects than a mature adult. Organic fruits and vegetables are also better for our environment , soil and water.Dr. Barbara Smith |
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