An Apple a Day: The Benefits of Making Apples a Regular Part of Your Diet

"Like an apple among the trees of the forest...". The Zohar on page 74 states that an apple is a universal remedy.

Apples contain Vitamin C and minerals like magnesium, fluoride, and more. They are rich in powerful antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory effects, helping to prevent many diseases. The pectin in apples is a dietary fiber that helps balance blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Pectin may also help prevent malignant diseases, Heaven forbid.

Eating apples supports a healthy gut microbiome. Apples contain dietary fibers, which are food for probiotics, allowing friendly gut bacteria to establish themselves on the intestinal walls. This strengthens the digestive system and improves the absorption of important nutrients in the body, boosting the immune system. Apples also help regulate the digestive system: they are good for constipation—with the skin—and for frequent bowel movements without the skin.

Additionally, when gut bacteria are in good shape, it boosts the production of the neurotransmitter 'serotonin,' which is important for emotional balance and the drive to act and move forward, especially in stressful, tense, and anxious situations.

The healthiest part of an apple is the core, which contains a high amount of probiotic bacteria. To get this benefit, it's good to consume the seeds as well—but not too many—one or two seeds are enough and beneficial.

Amygdalin is a phytochemical found in apple seeds. It is Vitamin B17, which helps prevent malignant diseases.

For maintaining a healthy weight, it's beneficial to include apples in your diet. They are low in calories and provide a feeling of fullness due to their high fiber content.

Apple cider vinegar slows down the breakdown of carbohydrates and helps balance blood sugar. It also eases reflux and phlegm accumulation and helps lower cholesterol. However, consuming apple cider vinegar on an empty stomach can irritate the system.

For those with a sensitive stomach or other stomach issues, it's not recommended to consume too many apples. People taking medications should be cautious, as apples may interfere with absorption.

For those who enjoy the distinctive taste and aroma of apple cider vinegar, it can be used as a salad dressing or to make pickled vegetables, incorporated into the diet but not in concentrated form, which could damage tooth enamel. If consuming directly, use a straw.

Zohara Sharvit is a naturopath N.D and an iridology specialist with many years of experience in treatment, counseling, and workshop facilitation. To book a free workshop, call 073-2221290