A top scientist has revealed a surprising benefit that apples may have for your brain health.
Nutrition scientist Dr. Vincent Candrawinata said there is good evidence that eating apples regularly can improve memory and lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
The Sydney health researcher said eating more apples “could help you remember where you put your car keys,” as they contain vitamins and minerals that have been linked to memory retention.
He said the fruit is rich in phenolics, such as flavonoids, which may help lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by protecting the brain from harmful substances.
Dr. Vincent said flavonoids are also found in many other fruits and vegetables and are also a strong antioxidant that can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Nutrition scientist Dr. Vincent Candrawinata (pictured) said there is good evidence that eating apples regularly can improve memory and lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Dr. Vincent cited an American study of 2,800 participants aged 50, which showed that those who ate foods low in flavonoids were two to four times more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias over a twenty-year period.
‘Flavonoids are phenolic compounds found in fruits such as apples and pears, and vegetables such as kale and spinach. You can even find them in chocolate and wine! These compounds, when properly absorbed, are beneficial to our health,” he said.
“Studies have shown that a higher dietary intake of flavonoids and their subclass of flavonols may be associated with reducing the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.”
He explained that a higher intake of apples can provide the body with important vitamins and minerals that protect brain cells from neurotoxicity that can lead to such neurodegenerative disorders.
‘Neurotoxicity occurs when the body’s nervous system is exposed to natural or man-made toxic substances and changes the normal activity of the nervous system. Ultimately, this could lead to brain neurons being disrupted or killed.” he said.
The Sydney health researcher said apples are rich in phenolics, such as flavonoids, which help lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by protecting the brain from harmful substances (stock image)
“Neurotoxicity can occur as a result of exposure to substances used in chemotherapy, radiation treatment, drug therapies, or even exposure to heavy metals such as mercury and certain food additives, pesticides, industrial and cleaning products, and cosmetics.”
The clinical nutritionist added that while there is no cure or even a known cause for Alzheimer’s disease, there are ways to reduce the chances of developing the disease.
“Leading a healthy lifestyle, including eating a balanced diet and maintaining good fitness, are both great ways to reduce the risk of developing the disease,” he said.
“It’s amazing to think that a fruit as simple as an apple can play such an important role in lowering the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.”
Dr. Vincent said adding fresh apples to your daily diet can have a plethora of benefits, including for your mental health.
‘Apples are a good source of pectin, a soluble fibre. Studies and research have shown that consuming high amounts of this type of fiber is associated with a lower risk of depression symptoms,” he said.
“Fruits and vegetables are very beneficial for mental health and people who regularly consume raw fruits and vegetables are less likely to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety.”