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11 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Apples, According to Nutritionist Nicola Shubrook

11 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Apples, According to Nutritionist Nicola Shubrook

Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and dietary fiber, apples offer remarkable health benefits. As one of our favorite fruits, they're more than just delicious.

But what makes apples so beneficial? Registered nutritionist Nicola Shubrook explains the 11 incredible health benefits of apples. Read on:

11 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Apples, According to Nutritionist Nicola Shubrook Contents
  • What exactly is an apple?
  • Nutritional benefits of apples
  • The 11 health benefits of apples
  • 1. Lowers cholesterol levels
  • 2. Protects against diabetes
  • 3. Prevents overweight
  • 4. Supports heart health
  • 5. Promotes bone health
  • 6. Aids digestion
  • 7. Protects against certain cancers
  • 8. Helps maintain a healthy weight
  • 9. Fights Alzheimer's disease
  • 10. Protects teeth
  • 11. Cleanses the liver
  • Can you be allergic to apples?
  • Our favorite apple recipes

What exactly is an apple?

11 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Apples, According to Nutritionist Nicola Shubrook

Apples are unbeatable value—one of the most affordable fruits at markets and supermarkets, available everywhere.

With over 2,000 varieties like Golden, Granny Smith, Gala, or green apples, there's something for every taste: sweet, tangy, crunchy, juicy, floury, or firm.

This variety drives their popularity, ensuring delicious French apples year-round.

Opt for organic to avoid pesticide-contaminated apples. In France, they're harvested from late August to November.

Many varieties store well. Grandma's tip: Keep them in a cool, dark place.

To discover: Practical and Free: The Calendar of Seasonal Fruits and Vegetables.

What are the nutritional benefits of apples?

11 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Apples, According to Nutritionist Nicola Shubrook

One medium apple provides:

  • 51 kcal/215 kJ
  • 6g protein
  • 5g lipids
  • 6g carbohydrates
  • 2g fiber
  • 100mg potassium
  • 6mg vitamin C

To discover: Guide to Vitamins: What Are Their Benefits and Which Foods Have the Most?

The 11 Health Benefits of Apples

1. Lowers cholesterol levels

11 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Apples, According to Nutritionist Nicola Shubrook

Apples are rich in pectin, a natural soluble fiber. Studies show eating whole apples reduces cholesterol (Source 1). In postmenopausal women, 75g of dried apples (about 2 whole apples) lowered levels significantly (Source 2).

To discover: How to Lower Your Cholesterol? 7 Natural Remedies.

2. Protects against diabetes

11 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Apples, According to Nutritionist Nicola Shubrook

High in fiber for a low glycemic index (GI), apples stabilize blood sugar (Source 3). Rich in flavonoids, they improve insulin sensitivity (Source 4), aiding weight control and diabetes prevention.

To discover: The Natural Diabetes Cure Scientists Now Approve.

3. Prevents overweight

11 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Apples, According to Nutritionist Nicola Shubrook

Pectin supports healthy intestinal flora, preventing obesity and inflammation. Animal studies confirm this (Source 5); promising human trials continue (Source 6).

To discover: 14 Habits That Make You Obese.

4. Supports heart health

11 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Apples, According to Nutritionist Nicola Shubrook

Polyphenols like quercetin offer protection. Regular intake boosts quercetin, reducing risks of cardiovascular disease and asthma (Sources 7, 8).

To discover: 5 Delicious Foods Good for the Heart.

5. Promotes bone health

11 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Apples, According to Nutritionist Nicola Shubrook

Fruits and vegetables like apples boost bone density. A study showed they reduce calcium loss, strengthening bones (Source 9).

6. Aids digestion

11 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Apples, According to Nutritionist Nicola Shubrook

Apples provide both soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber promotes satiety and blood sugar control; insoluble fights constipation. Eat the skin for full benefits.

To discover: Why You Shouldn't Eat an Apple Right After Meals.

7. Protects against certain cancers

11 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Apples, According to Nutritionist Nicola Shubrook

Antioxidants limit cancer cell growth (Source 10). Regular consumption may lower risks of breast, colorectal, esophageal, and oral cancers (Source 11). Fiber further aids prevention (Sources 12, 13).

8. Helps maintain a healthy weight

11 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Apples, According to Nutritionist Nicola Shubrook

Fiber boosts satiety, reducing snacking. Fiber-rich diets correlate with lower BMI (Source 14). Overweight women lost 1.22 kg eating 3 apples daily for 12 weeks (Source 15)—just 95 calories each.

To discover: 20 Best Foods to Lose Weight Fast.

9. Fights Alzheimer's disease

11 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Apples, According to Nutritionist Nicola Shubrook

Flavonoid-rich foods like apples cut Alzheimer's risk by 2-4 times in those over 50 (Source 16). Quercetin protects neurons (Source 17).

To discover: Grandparents Who Babysit Have Less Alzheimer's Risk.

10. Protects teeth

11 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Apples, According to Nutritionist Nicola Shubrook

Chewing apples stimulates saliva, which neutralizes bacteria and prevents cavities—great for oral health alongside brushing.

To discover: 4 Amazing Coconut Oil Benefits for Teeth.

11. Cleanses the liver

11 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Apples, According to Nutritionist Nicola Shubrook

Fiber eliminates toxins, purifying the liver.

To discover: 10 Best Detox Foods for Liver Health.

Can you be allergic to apples?

Apples contain salicylates, which may trigger reactions like skin redness in sensitive individuals, similar to peaches or avocados. Always choose organic to avoid pesticides.

To discover: 7 Tips for Eating Organic on a Budget.

Our favorite apple recipes

  • Apple and cinnamon rolls
  • Mini caramel apples
  • Baked apples caramelized with honey
  • Cider vinegar from leftover apples
  • Chocolate apple rosettes
  • Black pudding with apples
  • Chocolate toffee apples
  • Apple clafoutis