An apple a day keeps the doctor away. Does it?

It is an irrefutable fact that the expression “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” is one of the most famous sayings we have all heard growing up. However, the truth in the statement is still up for debate. 

The original phrase that was published in the Notes and Queries magazine read: “Eat an apple on going to bed, and you’ll keep the doctor from earning his bread.”

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This article will closely examine if apple actually has any health benefits and if it stays true to how it has been marketed for decades. 

1: Nutritional values 

Apples are loaded with Vitamin C, fibre, antioxidants, potassium and Vitamin K that are associated with promoting long-term health. 

They are also a good source of antioxidants like caffeic acid and epicatechin. 

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2: Maintains good heart health 

According to studies, those who eat apples have a lower risk of chronic conditions including heart diseases. One study showed that over 20,000 adults who had higher consumption amounts of white-fleshed fruits, including apples, are linked to a lower risk of a stroke. This may be owing to the presence of flavonoids in apples that are shown to reduce inflammation and protect the heart’s health. 

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3: Prevents formation of cancer 

Several compounds found in apples are known to prevent cancer formation. Higher consumption of apples is also related to a lower risk of colorectal cancer, observed a study. 

Research suggests that those who have a diet rich in fruits and vegetables stand at a lower risk of stomach, colon and lung cancer. 

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4: Helps in weight loss 

Since apples are rich in fibre content, they result in promoting feelings of fullness which in turn decreases our calorie intake. 

5: Reduces the risk of diabetes 

Compared with not eating apples at all, eating one apple per day is tied to a 28% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes, read a study. 

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Is there any downside to eating an apple? 

Excessive consumption of even a good thing might have several adverse side effects. Eating multiple apples in a day may cause symptoms like gas, bloating and stomach pain. Apple also contains a good chunk of carbs in each serving.