Apples are great foods, the Shinigami from Death Note well knew. Besides being tasty, they are a great source of vitamin C.
Researchers in Poland found that people who ate at least one apple a day had a lower risk of developing colon cancer than those who did not. They attributed this finding to two possible reasons .
Apples are a rich source of phytochemicals, natural substances that include polyphenols and flavonoids. These plant-based chemicals have the ability to fight cancer cell growth. Apples are also a good source of dietary fiber, another plant substance associated with a lower risk of colon cancer .
Other properties
Other studies have pointed out how the phytochemicals in apples can help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. Quercetin, a natural flavonoid in apples, can help reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer. And a research team from Cornell University found other phytochemicals with the potential to kill or slow the growth of at least three different types of human cancer cells: colon, breast and liver .
However, it is a good idea to eat apples whole, with the peel (unless you have a health reason not to do so). That’s where most of the fiber and phytochemicals reside .
Speaking of fiber, apples are a good source of soluble fiber called pectin. Yes, that is the same substance that makes jams and jellies gel.
Soluble fibers like pectin are known for their ability to lower cholesterol and blood sugar as they pass undigested through our intestines. These undigested fibers also feed the beneficial bacteria in our gut, helping to tame harmful disease-causing bacteria .
An apple of average size (150-200 grams) has between 46 and 64 million cells. But most of the apple is just water and sugars : 85% water and 11% sugars. It doesn’t seem like a big deal, but it is. So, given the choice, let’s copy the habits of the shinigami. Our health will be greatly enhanced.