You’ve heard the saying time and time again:
An apple a day keeps the doc away.
…it turns out, there’s some truth to this.
Apples are rich in what’s called flavanoids which can help you reduce your risk of disease, according to a recent study published in the Nature Communications journal.
What are Flavanoids?
Flavanoids are a diverse group of naturally occuring plant chemicals that pack a powerful punch of antioxidants and anti-inflammation properties.
There’s a wide variety of foods that are considered flavanoids, including strawberries, blueberries, green and black tea, onions, kale and celery.
The research found that those who consumed at least 500 milligrams (mg) of flavanoids per day had the lowest risk of developing cancer or heart disease.
Additionally, the health-boosting effects of flavanoids appeared to be strongest for smokers and those who drank more than two alcoholic beverages per day.
The study’s authors note that flavanoid consumption shouldn’t be used as a quick fix to remedy poor habits, but that when combined with living an overall healthy lifestyle, it could be useful for keeping disease at bay.
This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. For further information, please consult a medical professional. Components of this article were adapted from Zywave. This is not intended to be exhaustive nor should any discussion or opinions be construed as legal advice. Readers should contact legal counsel or an insurance professional for appropriate advice.