Eating Apples Weekly May Cut Risk of Early Death by 39%, Study Finds

A new study from Yangtze Hospital in China reveals a surprising and significant link between apple consumption and better overall health, including a reduced risk of premature death. Over the course of a decade, researchers followed 2,184 middle-aged participants with high blood pressure. The results, published in Frontiers in Nutrition, showed that eating three to four apples per week reduced the risk of early death by approximately 39%.

The study also examined the impact of other starchy fruits, finding that consuming them three to six times per week lowered the risk of early death by about 30%. When both apples and starchy fruits were regularly included in the diet, the risk dropped by nearly 50%, highlighting the powerful role that fruit consumption can play in preventing chronic diseases and supporting cardiovascular health.

Why Apples Are So Beneficial

Apples, especially when eaten with the peel, offer a wide range of health benefits. A medium apple contains about 4.4 grams of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Apples are also rich in phytochemicals and antioxidants that combat free radicals, slow aging processes, and protect against heart disease.

Previous research has linked regular apple consumption to lower cholesterol levels, reduced stroke risk, and improved gut health due to the presence of friendly bacteria.

A Simple Habit With a Big Impact

The researchers recommend incorporating apples into a balanced weekly diet, while also including a variety of other fruits for optimal health. The study underscores how simple, everyday foods like apples can make a measurable difference in overall well-being and longevity.