Health Benefits of Apples: The First Superfood!

Health Benefits of Apples: The First Superfood!
Most individuals are familiar with the old adage, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” However, very few individuals are actually aware of how valid that statement actually is. Apples possess a variety of healthful compounds and components that do rank the delicious and tangy fruit among the best treatment options for a variety of health conditions.

Are Apples a Superfood?

From red delicious to Macintosh and granny smith, apples come in a variety of different shapes, sizes and flavors, but one thing all of the different varieties have in common is a plethora of health benefits.

Apples possess specific components that make them effective health defenders. Apples, red delicious and granny smith in particular, possess a high concentration of antioxidants or disease-fighting agents. These antioxidants function to repair and prevent oxidation damage that occurs from free radicals in the environment and body. Additionally, apples contain pectin, a soluble fiber that aids in digestion. Pectin is possibly the most important component of an apple as it rids the body of excess fatty acids and other toxic substances. However, an apple, as a whole, is an effective overall health remedy.

Health Benefits of Apples

In addition to fiber and antioxidants, apples contain a number of other nutrients that make them an effective health treatment. Apples contain an array of vitamins including vitamin C, riboflavin, thiamin and vitamin B-6. Apples are also rich in polyphenolic compounds or phytonutrients.

All of these elements combined make apples one of the best foods in any diet. Apples are good for supporting neurological health, preventing dementia and reducing the risk of stroke. This fruit also lowers cholesterol, reduces the risk of diabetes, wards off breast cancer and prevents vascular death. The fruit can also be used to treat diarrhea, constipation, irritable bowel syndrome and heartburn.

So, as the old saying suggests, an apple a day really can help keep the doctor away. Apples possess a variety of qualities and characteristics that make them healthful and beneficial. From antioxidants to extra fiber, apples contain a variety of nutrients of which everyone can use more.

Aloe Vera and its Wonderful Health Benefits

Aloe Vera and its Wonderful Health Benefits
Aloe vera is a unique plant that possesses a number of healing qualities. A member of the lily family, aloe vera is also a relative to garlic and onions. With its unique composition, various parts of the plant are used to treat different health conditions and can be applied both internally and externally.

What is Aloe Vera?

Aloe vera is considered a succulent plant species that is found only in cultivation. Frequently used for medicinal care, the plant is often described as a “wonder plant.” Somewhat short-stemmed and shrub-like, aloe vera possesses succulent leaves from which the well-known gelatinous aloe substance is taken.

Aloe vera is comprised of over 200 active elements including a combination of vitamins and minerals, amino acids, enzymes, polysaccharides and fatty acids. All of these nutrients together make aloe the beneficial substance that it is. The plant is also known as an adaptogen, as it boosts the body’s natural ability to adapt to external modifications and resist disease.

Health Benefits of Aloe Vera

Aloe is effective in a variety of ways and can be used to treat a wide range of conditions. Aside from being an adaptogen, aloe is high in important vitamins and minerals including vitamins A, C, E, B12, calcium, magnesium, zinc and others. The substance also contains a high concentration of amino acids and fatty acids. As such, aloe functions in detoxification, alkalization, oxygenation and immune support.

With its variety of nutritional benefits, aloe is capable of treating a range of health conditions both internally and externally. Acid reflux, acne, cancer, celiac disease, fatigue and gum issues are among the most commonly treated conditions. However, constipation, shingles, sore throat, ulcers, depression, burns and irritable bowel syndrome can also be treated using this compound.

While aloe comes in a variety of forms, fresh aloe straight from the plant is typically best. Aloe can be taken on a regular basis; however, it is most effective when taken for short periods of time as it is needed. With its variety of nutrients and range of health benefits, aloe is one of the most effective health treatments available today.