Sunday, February 28, 2010

An Apple a Day Keeps the Doctor Away


Why does an apple a day keep the doctor away? One medium apple provides an excellent source of fiber, and Red Delicious, Granny Smith, and Gala all rank in the top 20 on the USDA’s list of foods highest in antioxidants per serving size (80 calories). Antioxidant levels actually increase as apples ripen. Apples are a top source of the antioxidant quercetin which may reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease as well as lung and prostate cancers. Cornell University researchers found liver cancer cells treated with 50 mg of apple extract decreased cancer cell growth by 57%. But put down that peeler: A medium-sized Red Delicious apple with skin has about twice as much fiber and 45% more antioxidants than a naked one.

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