The Efficacy and Functions of Apples

Mar 05, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

A friend of mine really enjoys eating apples, but we are unsure about the effects of eating apples. Doctor, could you please explain the benefits and effects of apples?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yu Yongchao

The benefits and effects of apples include promoting digestion, enhancing immunity, lowering cholesterol, antioxidant and anti-aging properties, and assisting in weight loss.

1. Promoting digestion: Apples are rich in dietary fiber, especially pectin, which helps stimulate intestinal motility, improve digestive function, prevent constipation, and maintain intestinal health.

2. Enhancing immunity: Apples are rich in vitamin C, vitamin E, and various antioxidant substances, which can strengthen the immune system, help the body resist viral and bacterial infections, and prevent colds and other diseases.

3. Lowering cholesterol: The dietary fiber and antioxidant substances in apples help reduce cholesterol levels in the blood, decreasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Particularly, the polyphenols in apples are especially beneficial for cardiovascular health.

4. Antioxidant and anti-aging: Apples are rich in antioxidants, which can neutralize free radicals in the body, slow down the cellular aging process, protect the skin from UV damage, thereby helping to delay aging.

5. Assisting weight loss: Apples are relatively low in calories and rich in dietary fiber. Eating apples can increase the feeling of fullness, help reduce the intake of high-calorie foods, thus aiding in weight loss and weight management.

Apples should be consumed in moderation; excessive consumption may lead to indigestion. Diabetic patients should monitor their intake when eating apples to avoid affecting blood sugar levels.