Apples are the world’s most popular fruit- commonly called the “miracle food”. Apples are on the Top 10 List for healthy foods. They are the second most consumed fruit in the United States (Bananas are number 1). They are versatile and can be used in juices, drinks, appetizers, main courses and dessert. They are high in soluble fiber (which feeds the good bacteria in your gut), vitamin C, and potassium. Apples are also rich in antioxidants which may help reduce the risk of developing cancer, hypertension, diabetes and heart disease. The fiber in apples also helps improve fullness and cause weight loss because it helps lower blood sugar levels and increases your digestion. The most fiber is found in the peel of the apple so if you are more than 3 months post-op consume the peel! Tired of writing a “To do list”? Eat an apple a day to help improve your memory. Apples contain an antioxidant called Catechin. This wonderful compound has been shown to improve brain, memory and muscle function.
Apples come in many variations and are only 52 calories each! Apples vary widely in texture, aroma, color, and taste. This makes them the most used fruit in cooking and baking. Their skins also vary from a pale yellow to green to red and even purple. The top 6 varieties of apples in the U.S. are Gala, Fuji, Golden Delicious, Red Delicious, Granny Smith and Honey Crisp.
Fun Facts:
China is currently the worldwide leader in apple producing- with the United States in second.
Within the U.S., between 25-30 pounds of apples per person are eaten each year if you include juices, applesauce etc.
Apple trees take 4-5 years to produce their first apple.
There are over 8,000 varieties of apples worldwide- the largest variety of fruit known to exist.
Apples are part of the Rose family- like plums and pears.
Apples float in water because they are 25% air! (So bob for those apples this Halloween)
The largest apple weighed 4 pounds 1 oz!
It takes 36 apples to make 1 gallon of apple cider.
A Few Quick Serving Ideas:
Add chopped skinned apples to your tuna for a good crunch.
Slice apple and bake with pork chops or chicken.
BBQ sliced apples for dessert with a dollop of fat free whip cream and cinnamon
Baked apple is always a low fat winner dessert.
Apple pie overnight oats
Infuse your water with fresh apple slices
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