Benefits of eating apples

Apples are full of flavour and perfect for snacking on the go, but did you know that this favourite crunchy fruit boasts lots of health benefits too?

There are around 2,000 types of apple to enjoy. Because they grow readily in the UK, they’re cheap to buy compared to some other exotic fruits and seasonal berries. Whether you love the tang of a Granny Smith or the sweetness of a Pink Lady®, these favoured fruits will serve you well as part of your regular diet.

The benefits of eating apples

Apples are full of nutrients that can help protect and maintain your body. Here are some of the key nutritional benefits of eating apples:

Antioxidants

Apples contain antioxidants which help protect the cells in our bodies from damaging external factors like smoke, pollution, and harmful UV rays. The antioxidants in apples may help counteract the effects of a poor diet.¹

Fibre

Apples are a good source of nutritional fibre.² Most of the UK population need more fibre in their diet. An apple a day, which contains around 1.2g of fibre, is a simple way to boost your intake.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C has several essential functions in the body. These include protecting cells, maintaining healthy skin, blood vessels, and bones.³ While the highest concentrations of vitamin C are in fruits and vegetables like oranges, blackcurrants, and broccoli, there’s also a decent amount in apples.

The best way to eat apples

There are lots of delicious ways to enjoy apples, from using them in sweet dishes and breakfasts to creating exciting salads and eating them raw. Fresh, whole apples are the best way to get the most out of this nutritious fruit.⁴ If you’re interested in getting all the benefits of your apples, eat them with the skin. Apple skin contains much of the fruit’s fibre, making it one of the most nutritious parts. The juice of an apple is similarly nutritious. The dehydration required to produce dried apple slices removes a lot of vitamin C.⁵ However, dried fruit can be a delicious and healthy snack. If you love the taste and texture of dried fruit, try to choose a variety with no added sugar, like these naturally sweet dried apple rings.

Whatever way you enjoy your apples, you can be sure of the nutritional benefits of eating one of the most popular fruits in the UK. Why not keep a few fresh apples or some tasty dried apple slices in your car, desk, or bag for easy snacking on-the-go?

Last updated: 10 June 2020