An Apple a Day

Q:  Why does an apple a day keep the doctor away?

A:  The origin of the phrase is attributed to a Welsh folk proverb from 1866.  The Welsh proverb is “Eat an apple on going to bed, and you'll keep the doctor from earning his bread”.  By the turn of the 19th century, the Welsh proverb migrated to its current form.

The phrase came about due to the many health benefits of the apple.  Below is a list of the many health benefits:

•          One apple (with the skin on) provides 20% of the recommended daily intake of fiber.  That is the same as a bowl of bran cereal.

•          The skin of the apple is high in antioxidants.  The USDA rates apples amongst the top 20 foods with the highest antioxidant concentration.

•          Apples are a good source of Boron.  Boron is a trace element that strengthens bones and prevents osteoporosis.

•          Apples are rich in a soluble fiber called pectin. Research indicates pectin may help reduce or prevent the following:

•          various forms of cancer

•          heart disease

•          cholesterol

•          insulin requirements due to diabetes

•          The apple is known as nature’s toothbrush.

•         Apples have nutrients known as tannins that can protect against plaque and gum disease.

•         The mild fibrous texture and non-adherent quality of apples helps to clean teeth.

•         Apples contain a natural mildly astringent acid that whitens teeth.