Apples May Keep the Doctor Away

Dear Dr. Dave and Dr. Dee,

Is there anything to the saying, an apple a day keeps the doctor away?

Signed,

Curious

Dear Curious,

A fresh apple or apple juice can have healthy benefits. Apples are high in fiber and antioxidants. Antioxidants reduce oxidation and prevent cell damage.

The United States Apple Association (www.usapple.org) summarizes many studies that indicate apples may reduce the risk of cancer (breast, colon, prostate, lung), heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes, asthma, and memory loss.

Website, All About Apples, reported a study by Rong Tsao that found that certain apples and the peel were high in antioxidants. After studying 8 apples (Red Delicious, McIntosh, Cortland, Northern Spy, Ida Red, Golden Delicious, Mutsu, Empire apples), researchers concluded that Red Delicious had the highest antioxidant activity, and the skin had five times more than the flesh of the apple (Tsao 2007, cited in allaboutapples.com).

Apples and other fruits and vegetables should be part of a well balanced diet.

For more information about apples, go to www.allaboutapples.com and www.usapple.org