An apple a day keeps the doctor away | Is it true?

As you know, sugar is converted into various acids in your mouth, which instantly begin to attack tooth enamel, which leads to tooth decay and, if left unchecked, gum disease (periodontal disease). Regular brushing and flossing combined with lowered sugar consumption will help you avoid both. So, where do apples come in?

Crunchy fruits and vegetables like green beans, broccoli, celery, carrots and apples have a high water content that helps dilute the sugar content in them. The act of biting and crunching these foods also stimulates saliva production to help wash away food particles and prevent plaque buildup. Acidic fruits, however, like lemons, limes, tomatoes and oranges should be eaten with a meal to minimize their acidic effect on your teeth.

There are other benefits to apples in addition to promoting dental health. They include the following:

 

Apples reduce cholesterol 

Apples contain more fiber than most other carbohydrates (like rice, cereal, potatoes, etc) and apples also contain pectin, both of which have been proven to reduce cholesterol levels, which can help you lower your risk of heart disease.

 

Apples Help Reduce Blood Pressure 

The rich levels of potassium contained in apples helps control sodium levels in your blood, leading to a reduction in blood pressure that can reduce your risk of stroke.

 

Apples Help Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia 

Like many other fresh fruits and veggies, apples contain anti-oxidants that have been proven to lower the degeneration of brain cells.

 

Apples Can Lower your Risk of Colon Cancer 

After eating an apple, the apple fiber ferments in the colon, which helps keep cancer cells from forming there.

 

Apples Sooth Inflamed Airways 

The phytochemicals and flavonoids in apples have been proven to reduce symptoms in patients with asthma, chronic bronchitis and COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), as these components ease airway inflammation.

 

Apples Slow Skin Aging 

Apples contain anti-oxidants that slow the oxidation process in the body. Oxidation is a direct link to skin aging.

In addition to eating your daily apple, our Manhattan cosmetic dentists hope you’re also brushing after each meal and flossing every day!