Apples are one of the most widely consumed fruits in the world because of their sweet taste and numerous health benefits.
While we all know that an apple a day keeps the doctor away, not many people are aware of the benefits of consuming an apple’s peel. The peel is the outermost layer of the apple, and it is rich in nutrients that help to boost our overall health.
1. High Fiber Content
The peel of an apple is rich in fiber, which is essential for good digestion. Fiber is also known to lower the risk of various health conditions, such as heart disease and stroke.
Consuming the peel of an apple provides both soluble and insoluble fiber, which helps to regulate the digestive system and promote healthy bowel movements. The fiber content in the peel also helps to keep you feeling full, which makes it an excellent snack for those who are trying to lose weight.
2. Contains Antioxidants
The peel of an apple contains antioxidants that help to protect the body against the harmful effects of free radicals.
Free radicals are unstable substances that can damage cells and contribute to the development of chronic diseases, such as cancer, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s. The antioxidants in the peel of an apple help to neutralize free radicals and prevent cell damage, which can lead to improved overall health.
3. Promotes Heart Health
Consuming the peel of an apple can also help to promote heart health. The soluble fiber in the peel helps to reduce the absorption of cholesterol, which can lead to lower levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) in the blood.
A high level of LDL cholesterol is a risk factor for heart disease, and consuming the peel of an apple may help to reduce this risk. The peel of an apple is also rich in flavonoids, which are known to have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce the risk of heart disease.
4. May Improve Brain Function
The antioxidants in the peel of an apple may also help to improve brain function. Free radicals can cause damage to brain cells, which can lead to cognitive decline and the development of neurological diseases.
The antioxidants in the peel of an apple can help to protect brain cells, improve cognitive function, and reduce the risk of neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
5. May Reduce the Risk of Cancer
The antioxidants and fiber in the peel of an apple may also help to reduce the risk of cancer. The antioxidants in the peel help to neutralize free radicals, which can cause damage to cells and promote the growth of cancer cells.
The fiber in the peel may also help to reduce the risk of colon cancer by promoting healthy bowel movements and reducing the exposure of the colon to harmful substances.
6. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
The peel of an apple is also rich in vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health. The peel contains vitamins A and C, both of which are important for immune function.
The peel also contains potassium, which helps to regulate blood pressure and promote heart health. Other nutrients in the peel include calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium, which are important for bone health.
7. Lowers Blood Sugar
The peel of an apple also contains compounds that can help to lower blood sugar levels. One of these compounds is quercetin, which is a flavonoid that helps to regulate blood sugar levels.
Consuming the peel of an apple may help to reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and improve blood sugar control in those who already have the condition.
8. Anti-inflammatory Properties
The peel of an apple contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation throughout the body. Chronic inflammation is a risk factor for various health conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
The anti-inflammatory properties of the peel can help to reduce the risk of these conditions and promote overall health.
9. Helps to Improve Skin Health
The vitamins and antioxidants in the peel of an apple may also help to improve skin health. Vitamin A is important for skin health, and the antioxidants in the peel can help to prevent damage to skin cells and reduce the signs of aging.
The fiber in the peel may also help to promote healthy bowel movements, which can improve skin health by removing toxins from the body.
10. Can Help to Alleviate Respiratory Symptoms
The peel of an apple contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help to alleviate respiratory symptoms such as asthma.
Quercetin, which is found in the peel, has been shown to reduce inflammation in the airways and improve lung function. Consuming the peel of an apple may help to reduce the severity of respiratory symptoms and improve overall respiratory health.