Apples are a popular fruit that is consumed worldwide. Apart from being delicious, apples are also nutritious and are rich in antioxidants, fiber, and various other essential nutrients.
While many people eat apples, they often discard the skin, which is a common practice. However, apple skins are a rich source of nutrients and consuming them can offer various health benefits. Below are some of the benefits of eating apples with their skins.
1. High in Fiber
Apples are well-known for their high fiber content, but almost two-thirds of it is present in the skin. Eating an apple with its skin can provide about four grams of fiber, which is around 17% of the daily recommended intake.
Fiber is essential for maintaining digestive health, regulating blood sugar levels, and lowering cholesterol levels.
2. Rich Source of Antioxidants
The skin of the apple contains various antioxidants, which are important for protecting cells from oxidative stress and damage. Some of the primary antioxidants found in apple skins are quercetin, anthocyanins, and flavonoids.
These antioxidants may also lower the risk of certain chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease.
3. Boosts Immunity
The skin of the apple is rich in vitamin C, which is an essential nutrient for good immunity.
Additionally, apple skin also contains various other compounds, including catechins, which have been found to enhance the immune system’s response to infections and diseases.
4. Reduces the Risk of Chronic Diseases
Eating apples with their skins may reduce the risk of various chronic conditions, such as type 2 diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. The high fiber content of apple skin helps lower blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Additionally, the antioxidants found in apple skin may offer protection against cancer and reduce the risk of heart disease.
5. Improves Skin Health
Apple skins contain various nutrients that are important for maintaining healthy skin, including vitamin C, polyphenols, and natural acids.
Eating apples with their skins can help promote healthy skin by improving collagen production, reducing wrinkles, and protecting against skin damage caused by the sun.
6. Helps with Weight Loss
Eating foods high in fiber can help control appetite and reduce the overall calorie intake, which may aid in weight loss.
Apples with their skin are an excellent source of fiber and can promote satiety, leading to a reduction in calorie intake and aiding in weight loss.
7. Enhances Gut Health
Eating apples with their skins can promote healthy gut bacteria, which are important for maintaining gut health. The fiber present in apple skin acts as food for the beneficial gut bacteria, promoting their growth and enhancing gut health.
8. Reduces Inflammation
The antioxidants present in apple skin may help reduce inflammation in the body.
Inflammation is a natural process that can help fight infections and heal injuries, but chronic inflammation is linked to various chronic conditions, such as arthritis, heart disease, and cancer. Consuming apple skins may offer anti-inflammatory benefits and reduce the risk of chronic inflammation-related conditions.
9. Aids in Detoxification
Apple skins contain various compounds, such as polyphenols and flavonoids, which can help with detoxification. These compounds aid in the liver’s detoxification process by promoting the elimination of toxins from the body.
10. Versatile and Delicious
Apples are versatile and can be eaten in various forms, such as raw, cooked, or as a juice. The skin of the apple is delicious and adds a crunch to the fruit, making it more enjoyable to eat.
Apples can also be incorporated into various recipes, such as pies, cakes, salads, and smoothies.