An Apple a Day

Those venturing into fields or along roads can already observe that the deciduous trees, dormant during winter, signal the approaching spring and begin to blossom with flowers and leaves. One such tree is the apple tree. The apple fruit comes in many varieties, and we can find it on supermarket shelves almost year-round. It is a juicy fruit with a variety of flavors that appeal to many.

The apple is considered one of the essential fruits health-wise, not only because it contains a wealth of vitamins in large quantities. Apples are rich in dietary fibers found mainly in the peel. These fibers help with satiety, which is crucial when aiming to maintain a balanced weight. They also assist in lowering blood cholesterol levels and managing blood sugar levels for individuals with diabetes. This is one of the reasons why diabetics are allowed to eat apples despite their sweetness. Additionally, the fibers help with intestinal issues.

An additional advantage relates to the "low glycemic index," meaning the blood sugar rise rate after eating an apple is low. This is another reason why apples are allowed and suitable for consumption by diabetics and for other health conditions.

The apple contains malic acid, which can help remove various toxins from the body, such as heavy metals. Another advantage of apples is their relation to dental health: a study published in one of the journals showed that children who regularly consumed apples had better gum health than those who did not.

The apple can serve as a delicious and healthy snack and can be consumed without restriction. Eating apples can eliminate the need for unhealthy sweets. Apples pair exceptionally well with nuts and almonds, and together they can provide us with a healthy and nutritious protein meal.

Tips for buying and storing apples: A. When possible, it is advisable to buy organic, unsprayed apples, allowing you to eat the peel without worry. B. It is recommended to buy apples that are firm to the touch and as free of blemishes as possible. C. It is preferable to keep apples in the refrigerator in a ventilated, dry container, as they soften at room temperature. D. It is preferable to eat them raw rather than cooked.