Eat Apples to Lose Weight

A fresh apple is an ideal snack. It is an easy to carry, flavorful, filling, and low in calories; a 5-oz (140-g) piece of fruit has only 90 calories making it a perfect option for people looking for losing weight. In addition, it has good fiber content. Apples can be eaten fresh or cooked in myriad ways-baked into pies, crisps, and tarts; added to poultry stuffing; and made into jelly, apple butter, and sauce. Apple cider vinegar is an ingredient in many salad dressings. Pasteurized apple juice and fresh-pressed cider are popular drinks, while fermented apple cider, wine, and brandy are gaining in popularity.

Wash off the pesticide. Apple trees thrive in most temperate climates, but since they are vulnerable to worms, scale, and other insects, they are usually sprayed with pesticides several times. Apples should always be washed  carefully before eating; some experts even suggest peeling them, especially if they have been waxed. The wax itself is not a problem but it may prevent pesticide residues from being rinsed off.

Summarizing the benefits and drawbacks of apples, below are the key points for any health savvy:

Benefits:

*Low in calories and high in soluble fiber that helps lower cholesterol.

* Packed with numerous phytochemicals such as quercetin that help prevent heart disease and cancer.

* Apples enhance dental hygiene.

Drawbacks:

* Relatively low in nutrients.

* Skin may contain pesticide residues.

We will talk more about this amazing fruit in our next post.