The forbidden fruit? Eating few apples a week can reduce diabetes risk

By Aarti Bhanushali

Eating an apple to keep the doctor away isn’t just a cliche. The saying has its origins in the truth. The fruit is loaded with anti-oxidants and nutrients. It aids in weight management and is touted as being a complete fruit. One apple counts as one cup of fruit. Packed with pectin, it boosts metabolic levels and is healthy for the heart. Here are other health benefits:

A nutritional powerhouse
Apples are free of fat, sodium, and cholesterol. They are also a good source of dietary fibres and a single serving can fulfil 12 per cent of your daily fibre requirement, aiding digestion. They are also a vital source of potassium, an essential mineral that helps your body regulate other minerals, fluids and aids their absorption.

Check on diabetes
Several studies have linked eating apples to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. In one large study, eating an apple a day was linked to 28 per cent lower risk of type 2 diabetes, compared to not eating any. Even eating a couple of apples a week had a similar effect.

Protects your bones
Did you know that apples are one of the best natural sources of boron, a mineral that is important for building strong bones? Boron helps in preventing the bone-thinning disease — osteoporosis. It also helps in keeping energy levels high and thus keeps you going.