APPLE

It was said long ago, 'to eat an apple before going to bed will make the doctor beg his bread'. The modern version of this ancient saying, 'an apple a day keeps the doctor away', sums up the healthful and nourishing qualities of apples. Apples are invaluable for the maintenance of good health and in the treatment of many ailments. Apples detoxify the body and have an antiviral property. Apples are known to remove weakness and add vigour and vitality. It is, therefore, often given to patients to help them recover fast from their illness. It lowers cholesterol and risk of cancer. Has mild antibacterial, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory estrogenic activity. High in fiber, helps avoid constipation, suppresses appetite. Juice can cause diarrhea in children.

The cancer fighting qualities contained in a fresh, unpeeled apple are impressive. There are numerous studies whose findings are promising to anyone seeking to prevent or treat cancer. Lung cancer was not the only form of cancer worked on by apples. Many of the studies previously cited proved apple’s value with other forms of cancer as well. Among these are; prostate cancer, colon cancer, breast cancer and leukemia. A list of known biological activities associated with apples include: anticancer, antileukemic, antimutagenic, antimetastic.

In addition to important cancer fighting constituents, apples aid the digestive system and related diseases. First of all, apples fight obesity. The fiber in the form of pectin is just one factor that affects weight. The pectin has an amphoteric action. This means it is either laxative or antidiarrheal, according to the body’s needs. Pectin can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb dietary fats. Obesity is a huge factor in Type II diabetes.
  Blood sugar is also a factor. Pectin aids in the reduction of blood sugar. So, in addition to apple’s antiobesity, nutritive and digestive qualities, is revealed its antidiabetic action. The malic acid in an apple is beneficial for the bowels, liver and brain. Apples are cleaners. Among some of the reported actions are benefits for those exposed to radiation. It has been reported that apples are beneficial in binding radioactive residues and helping to excrete them from the body. Apples can also help remove toxic metals like lead from the body. Maybe one of the most important cleaning actions provided by apples has to do with cholesterol.

APPLE REDUCES
The pectin, as well as other constituents, plays a role in reducing bad cholesterol in the body. This is good news for blood vessels and the heart. Because apple is also a hematic, it can build blood as well as cleanse it. A reduced risk of cardiovascular disease has been associated with apple consumption. This same study showed apple’s constituents to have an effect on cerebrovascular health. The apple provides antioxidants for the bod.

AN APPLE A DAY KEEPS THE DOCTORS AWAY
Most of the apples medicinal qualities treat chronic illness. ‘An apple a day’ is an important adage to follow in order to enjoy its effects in these areas. There are many more benefits inherent in an apple. One source cites; Antianaemic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antimenopauseal, antiCrohn’s, antiedemic, anti PMS, antiseptic, antiyeast, antiviral, capillary protective, hepatoprotective, diuretic, fungicide, nematicide (round worms), and neuroprotective are a few not mentioned before. Still other sources assign tonic, astringent, disinfectant, cardiac stimulant and cephalic.