3. Supports a Healthy Immune System
Vitamin C is an antioxidant vitamin, and antioxidants play an important role in fighting free radicals, nasty, unstable molecules of oxygen that can damage our DNA and cells, including the important cells of the immune system.
An apple contains 10% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C, and consuming antioxidants such as vitamin C helps to protect the immune system from free radical damage. Free radicals are introduced into the body via smoking, eating fried and processed foods, drinking excessive alcohol and breathing in pollution. But they’re also an unavoidable by-product of normal biological functions such as breathing and digestion.
A well supported immune system is better equipped to do its job of finding and destroying invading pathogens that may otherwise cause infections and disease and make us unwell.
Animal studies also suggest that a diet high in fibre may also strengthen the immune system by converting pro-inflammatory chemicals into anti-inflammatory and immune-supporting ones. Further human studies are required, but the results are promising.
Apples are plentiful in autumn harvests, which is a prime time to give more thought to supporting a strong immune system before the winter bug season. Perhaps this is Mother Nature’s way of encouraging us to eat well leading into the colder months!
Also Read: How To Strenghten Your Immune System Naturally
