You’ve heard it said since you were a kid, about an apple a day keeping the doctor away. According to Patricia Salzer, a registered dietitian and workplace wellness consultant at Univera Healthcare, there’s really something to it.
“Apples are high in nutrients, antioxidants and fiber, which aid brain function and memory, and help lower the risk of cancer, hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and metabolic syndrome,” said Salzer. “In addition, apple picking is a fun, fresh air activity!”
According to Salzer:
- A medium apple is considered one serving. Many apples are larger than that, so keep in mind that moderation and portion control are important.
- Don’t make apples the only fruit you eat. Even though they are a nutrition powerhouse, they don’t meet all of your nutritional needs. Variety in the diet helps to give us the variety of nutrients that are important for good health.
- Limit apple juice or cider. You are better off eating whole fruit and letting your body turn it into juice.
- Enjoy apples at meals and as snacks. Apples are great with breakfast on oatmeal or pancakes. Add apples to a tossed salad or coleslaw. Use apples in winter squash soup or to add some crunch to a grilled turkey and cheese sandwich. Roasted apples go great with chicken or pork. And, an apple crisp made with whole wheat flour, oats and walnuts is a delicious dessert.
As for that bit about keeping the doctor away; It’s important to have a Primary Care Physician that you visit regularly to get recommended preventive health screenings based on your age and gender.
“Prevention is the key to good health,” reminds Salzer, “so you really don’t want to keep the doctor away!”
