We all know the expression “an apple a day keeps the doctor away.” This is one adage with a lot of truth to it, and keeping the doctor away is something we Boomers certainly want to do. So, here are a dozen reasons to bite into that juicy McIntosh, Granny Smith, Red Delicious, Winesap, etc.:
1. Lower cholesterol (pectin, a soluble fiber)
2. Lower blood pressure (quercetin, a flavanoid)
3. Boost the immune system (quercetin)
4. Prevent metabolic system (whole apple products including juice and applesauce)
5. Fight cancer (antioxidants)
6. Increase bone density (due to a flavanoid called phloridzin, and boron)
7. Prevent/help control diabetes (pectin reduces body’s need for insulin)
8. Manage weight (filling, low calorie – about 80 calories for a medium apple)
9. Improve lung function (antioxidants and catechins)
10. Prevent wrinkles (procyanadin B-2)
11. Promote growth of hair (procyanadin B-2)
12. Promote regular bowel function (fiber)

Need a final reason – apples are delicious! As Henry David Thoreau said, “Surely the apple is the noblest of fruits.” Bon appétit!

Jan Cullinane Author, Entreprenuer, Retirement Expert

Jan Cullinane is the co-author of The New Retirement: The Ultimate Guide to the Rest of Your Life (Rodale, 2007). She gives seminars on the (primarily) non-financial aspects of retirement through her company, "Retirement Living from A to Z."