Naturopathy

Mahashouse followers will undoubtably know that we’re all about seasonal eating, but this ‘miraculous’ fruit IS THE EXCEPTION, since it grows in different seasons throughout the world, its the one fruit, that can be grown in almost every soil in every region of the world, which is nature’s intent, as the benefits of this fruit goes beyond just fulfilling our daily needs of different vitamins and minerals.

First, lets learn some facts about this wonder healing fruit.

• 7,500 varieties of apples are grown throughout the world.
• They come in all shades of reds, greens, and yellows.
•  They are a great source of the fibre pectin. One apple has five grams of fibre.
• Apple peel contains two-thirds of the fibre and plenty of antioxidants. Antioxidants help reduce damage to cells, which can trigger diseases.
• Although China & the USA are the top producers of apples, most countries will grow apples, making it available all seasons.

Its no surprise, that it was the fruit that forced Adam’s descend from heaven to earth, today will discuss why it was possibly worth his while, for its incredible health benefits.

There is merit to the old saying that an apple a day keeps the doctor away, but did you know that apples are also a bone builder?

An Apple a Day May Keep Osteoporosis Away

Recently, French researchers discovered that a flavonoid found exclusively in apples called phloridzin may protect postmenopausal women from osteoporosis by improving inflammation markers and increasing bone density.

A medium apple also provides 15 percent of the recommended daily allowance of both fiber and vitamin C, and a variety of bone-building polyphenols, trace minerals and flavonoids.

Vitamin C, is essential for the production of collagen, which maintains muscles, blood vessels, bones and cartilage. It also supports liver function and promotes the production of glutathione, a compound that fights toxins in the liver. Fiber also moves toxins through the intestinal tract and helps to prevent them from being circulated to the liver. Ensuring liver health is a good way to ensure bone health as poor liver function has been connected to osteoporosis.

Entire books have been written about the benefits of vitamin C and fiber, and apples are known to be a good source of both. But the unique combination of antioxidants such as polyphenols and flavonoids, plus valuable bone-building minerals is what really makes the apple a bone healthy powerhouse. Polyphenols, have been shown to increase the production of osteoblasts. Apples are one of the most potent fruit sources of polyphenols. A study conducted in France has shown that phloridzin, a polyphenol exclusively found in apples and especially concentrated on apple peels, can prevent bone loss.

Apple peel appear to up regulate the tumor suppressor gene mason, and have strong antiprolifertive effects on breast and prostate cancer cell growth in vitro. An apple a day keeps the doctor away indeed. L-lysine found in apples is an anti inflammatory for the nervous system

Boron, a trace mineral found in apples which supports the function of important bone-healthy nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorous and vitamin D.

Don’t Peel Away the Nutrients!

Peel your apple and much of its fibre, antioxidant and phytonutrient value is lost. Try to source organic apples to avoid not only pesticides but synthetic waxes as well. It would be beneficial to look for apples, that are not waxed. I soak non organic apples in a bowl of water with a tsp of bicarbonate soda before consuming them.

When picking apples at the market, look for firm fruits that display a rich colour and no bruising, soft areas or discolouration. The skin should appear and feel smooth. Store apples in the refrigerator to preserve taste and nutritional value. Apples soak up strong odors and tastes, so don’t store them next to onions or other pungent foods.

The apples said to have the greatest polyphenols and flavonoids are Rome Beauty, Cortland, Golden Delicious, Fuji apples and Red Delicious.

Apples are a delicious snack on their own, but furthermore apple sauce has great gut healing benefits, not only soothing your gut lining, but its part of the BRAT (BANANA/RICE/APPLE SAUCE/TOAST) remedy for upset stomachs/diarrhoea too.

click here to get my apple sauce recipe.