Why you should eat more apples

Apples are the "wonder fruit of the world", and we need to be eating more of them, according to a leading clinical nutritionist and food scientist. 

University of Newcastle researcher Dr Vincent Candrawinata is calling on Australians to increase their consumption of apples, saying they "are quite an extraordinary package of super powers". 

"Not only are they full of fibre, vitamin C and other beneficial nutrients, they are also known to inhibit cancer, reduce hair loss, improve the health of our teeth and gums, reduce bowel inflammation, speed up weight loss, and lower the risk of heart disease and diabetes," he explained. 

"Now, thanks to groundbreaking world research, it is possible to say apples will make you live longer. Apples also contain Fisetin, which – based on recent research published by EbioMedicine – is a senotherapeutic that extends health and lifespan. Many people believe that Fisetin is the holy grail of long life."

The human aging process involves the accumulation of damaged cells, he noted, and damaged cells undergo further aging and deterioration, which cause inflammation and tissue damage. Fisetin has been found to reduce the level of damaged cells, he said.  

"Further research is being undertaken to better understand the role Fisetin plays in our body and what type of dosage is required to optimise its impact on our lifespan. While my research colleagues across the world are continuing their work, there is no doubt that people need to eat more apples," he argued.

"Most people eat only half the recommended quality of fruit, but drink way too much fruit juice. My advice is stay away from fruit juice, it is full of sugar and low in dietary fibre. Instead, reach for an apple. Pack a couple in your bag every day and make sure you eat them."

Apples are full of vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals, he said, and red apples contain carotenes, vitamin A, which also assists our immune function.

"With the humble apple being responsible for so many health benefits, and now according to researchers, Fisetin, which can increase our health and lifespan, there is no reason not to eat more apples." 

"An apple a day not only keeps the doctor away, it also keeps us living longer." 

"Add apples to your meals in fruit salad or an additional ingredient in salads. Add them to smoothies or just add one to your lunch box as a snack. Apples are versatile and easy to carry around. They really are the ideal food," he suggested.