Dorothy FarrarApple
An apple is a popular nutritious pome fruit with a sweet or tart flavor. Well over 20,000 different varieties are cultivated worldwide. There are numerous valuable vitamins, minerals and trace elements, especially directly in and under the thin shell.
Interesting facts about apples
The mention of the apple in the biblical story indicates that it is a fruit that has been known for thousands of years. In fact, as early as 10,000 years before Christ, the first apples from today’s perspective were growing in what is now Kazakhstan.
The capital Alma-Ata used to be called Almaty. Translated, this means: “City of the apple”. At that time, however, the quality and taste of apples were not comparable to today’s apple quality. The Asian apple was small, woody and contained a large number of pips. Also, the taste was very sour.
In ancient times, the apple found its way to the Romans and Greeks via the trade routes of the time. Here, changed cultivation methods ensured that the apple had a sweeter taste over time. The apple became increasingly attractive and became more widespread. The apple also achieved an ever-increasing degree of symbolic importance and appreciative assessments based on the health effect.
With the expansion of the Roman Empire, the apple made its way to Northern Europe. Apples have been grown on deciduous trees and bushes in the Rhine Valley since the first century AD. In Germany, an average of around 30 kilograms of apples are currently consumed per inhabitant per year. With their yield, four main apple varieties provide 70 percent of the entire German apple harvest of over one million tons.
After citrus fruits, bananas and grapes, apples are among the most sought-after fruits worldwide. The leading European apple-growing country is Italy (especially South Tyrol), followed by France. The apple, which grows from an ovary after flowering, is available in green, yellow or reddish colors. Depending on the state of ripeness, apples are classified as summer, autumn or winter apples (such as Boskop). The varieties Royal Gala, Delicious and Braeburn are popular because of their sweetness.
importance to health
The well-known English proverb describes the importance of apples for health because of their comprehensive spectrum of effects. The thesis that eating an apple every day can protect against diseases and keep the doctor away is well founded.
Long-term consumption of apples strengthens the body’s immune system. More than 30 important vitamins, minerals and trace elements have a regulating effect on intestinal activity , water balance and cholesterol levels . In addition, pollutants are bound and flushed out again.
The carotenoids and flavonoids contained in the apple fruit can even reduce the risk of cancer . These active ingredients have a proven antioxidant property (radical scavengers). The results of scientific studies support the assumption that regular apple consumption reduces the risk of bronchial and lung diseases.
Grated apples are considered a home remedy for diarrheal diseases . For a sore throat , apple cider vinegar mixed with hot water and honey is recommended, which is also used to reduce body weight.
A side effect of eating an apple is the natural cleaning of the teeth due to the fruit acid . A mask made of grated apple and honey is said to have a beneficial effect on the skin. The fiber contained in the apple stimulates digestion and ensures a long-lasting feeling of satiety. As a welcome snack, apples thus successfully prevent fatal cravings.
Ingredients & nutritional values
In particular, an apple contains an effective proportion of vitamin C. The classic protective vitamin is particularly important for maintaining and restoring health. An apple also contains provitamin A , vitamins B1, B2, B6 and E, as well as folic acid and niacin.
The fiber pectin is present in the cell walls of an apple. Among other things, iodine can be found in the core. Potassium , calcium , iron as well as magnesium and phosphorus make the apple a beneficial store of minerals and trace elements. The high fructose content of an apple is suitable as a quick source of energy. About 85 percent of an apple is water . It contains hardly any fat .
intolerances
Eating an apple is often problematic because the chemical substances on it have not been removed or not completely removed by washing. The agents sprayed to combat pests can cause discomfort and diarrhea. An alternative are organic apples.
In the case of fructose intolerance, eating an apple can cause symptoms such as nausea and abdominal pain as well as headaches or dizziness . The arrangement of the amino acids contained in an apple can also lead to allergic reactions. Processed, especially cooked apples such as apple sauce or apple juice can usually be consumed without symptoms.
Shopping and kitchen tips
Fresh apples are available in Germany throughout the year. Prices vary depending on the variety and season. Apples can be purchased in supermarkets, retail stores, specialty fruit and vegetable shops, or at weekly markets. In some cases, direct sales also take place in farms and apple-growing areas. In addition to domestic products, imported apples are also available.
The shelf life depends on the variety, the state of ripeness and the storage conditions. The freshness of the apple when you buy it can be seen from the plump, shiny color of the apple. Care should also be taken to ensure that there are no dents or rotten spots. The stem should not look too dry yet. Separate storage should be in a cool, dark place such as a basement.
Depending on the variety and ripeness at the time of storage, apples can be stored for several months. During the storage process, apples release carbon dioxide. A cover like a plastic bag with small air holes ensures the longest possible shelf life due to the lack of oxygen. Unlike applesauce or apple compote, apples are not suitable for freezing.
preparation tips
Apples can be prepared in various forms and serve as an addition to many dishes, desserts and baked goods. An apple can be eaten raw, boiled or fried in pieces or chopped whole. Apples are very popular as a snack between meals or as an ingredient in fruit salads, muesli or cakes.
The baked apple is a special treat in winter. Apples are also part of many main meals. They can be found in red cabbage , as a stuffing in a goose, or in fruit juices, for example. A delicious dessert is offered, among other things, applesauce or apples with vanilla sauce .
Hello and welcome to my Health Guide & Encyclopedia! My name is Dorothy Farrar, and I'm the founder and main author of this platform.
My passion for health and wellness started at a young age when I became interested in the connection between the food we eat and the way we feel. This fascination led me to study nutrition and dietetics in college, where I learned about the importance of a balanced diet and the impact of various nutrients on the body.