food energy unit supplied by fats, carbohydrates and proteins).

food energy unit supplied by fats, carbohydrates and proteins). The energy supplied by an apple comes from quickly available fruit sugars. This quick energy makes the apple a prime choice for snacking because it fills you up - not out - while still providing quick energy. A raw apple with the skin provides calcium, phosphorus, iron, sodium, potassium, vitamin A, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin and vitamin C.

The body needs fiber in the diet for its digestive and regulatory system to function properly.

Apples are also an excellent source of pectin which is associated with helping keep cholesterol levels in balance, and this relationship is felt to be significant in helping to prevent or reduce the dangers of coronary heart disease.

The relatively high potassium and low sodium ratio in apples is also significant in some cardiac and renal problems as well as in the diets for overweight persons.

Studies have shown that individuals who eat apples regularly have fewer headaches and other illnesses associated with nervous tension. These same people also show a reduced incidence of colds and other minor upper-respiratory ailments.

Apples are considered to be “nature’s toothbrush.” Whereas eating an apple doesn’t and shouldn’t be encouraged as a substitute for proper brushing of the teeth, doing so does provide the greatest natural “assistant” a dentist or dental hygienist could have. The mild fibrous texture of the apple for detergent action, its juice content, its delightful aroma and mouth-watering appeal to induce salivary activity all combine to make the apple an ideal dentifrice and natural “toothbrush.” Research has shown a marked reduction in dental caries when apples are eaten regularly in lieu of or following excessive amounts of candies, pastries and other foods that leave a sticky residue between and around the teeth for extended periods of time.