Focus on Fruit: Why We Love Apples

Yes, it will take more than an "apple a day to keep the doctor away," but it's a step in the right direction! Apples are fat free, cholesterol free and sodium free. They're easy to carry around for snacking, are low in calories and are natural breath fresheners.

Apples are a good source of fiber. The fiber in apples can help lower blood cholesterol, control blood sugar and assist with weight loss. It may even prevent certain types of cancer. Be sure to eat the skin to get all of the vitamin C.

There are hundreds of different types of apples - sweet, tart, crispy or crunchy. Some are better for baking, some for eating raw.

Say no to bad apples

• Choose apples that feel hard and don't dent when you press your finger against them. Be sure you do this with larger apples because they are more likely to be overripe.
• Keep apples in your refrigerator to keep them crisp. If left out, they will become soft quickly. They can keep in the refrigerator for up to six weeks.
• It's best not to put apples in the same bin as vegetables. However, if you have to, be sure to keep them in a plastic bag. Apples can make vegetables ripen faster, make carrots bitter, turn cucumbers yellow and add brown spots to lettuce.

If you want to prevent apples from turning brown after cutting, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice on them. If you want to bake your apples, try adding some vanilla, almonds, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, cardamom or lemon to bring out the taste.

Did you know?

• Each American eats approximately 19.6 pounds of fresh apples annually.
• Apples are a member of the rose family.
• Apples are available year-round.
• The most popular variety in the U.S. is the Red Delicious.
• There are more than 7,000 varieties of apples grown in the world.

Apple nutrition facts
(One medium, fresh, raw, with skin)

Calories: 81
Carbohydrates: 21 grams
Fiber: 4 grams
Sodium: 0.00 mg
Potassium: 159 mg
Vitamin C: 8 mg
Vitamin A: 73 IU
Folate: 4 mcg

Related Articles Does Fiber Each Day Keep Diverticular Disease Away? The Power of Oats More Fiber Equals Less Cancer

External Sources Urban Programs Resource Network, University of Illinois Dole Food Company University of Illinois Extension

This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.

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