An Apple a Day Keeps the Doctor Away

"An apple a day keeps the doctor away" is one of the oldest expressions around.  But does an apple really keep you away from the doctor? Are apples the solution to all our health problems? Will an apple a day keep the doctor away? by Amy Hunter is an article that I came across one of my favorite TV networks, TLC that answer all of these questions! To be honest I'm not sure how credible Ms. Hunter is which is why I would recommend you do some additionally research but the second part of my post is based on facts from the CDC.

According to Hunter, "The first printed mention of this saying can be found in the February 1866 issue of the publication "Notes and Queries." The publication printed the proverb like this: "Eat an apple on going to bed, and you'll keep the doctor from earning his bread". Since then some truth has been proven to the saying. An apple serves for multiple purposes to you body that really can help. Such health benefits include, "acts as a toothbrush, cleaning teeth and killing bacteria in the mouth, which may reduce the risk of tooth decay. They're also low in calorie density, one of the trademarks of a healthy food. When a food is low in calorie density you can eat good size portions of the food for relatively few calories. In addition, apples are affordable and readily available" (Hunter, para. 3). Below is a summary of key health benefits provided by the apple.

• Pectin -- lowers both blood pressure and glucose levels, LDL, or "bad" cholesterol in the body. Pectin, like other forms of fiber, helps maintain the health of the digestive system. A
• Boron -- A nutrient found in abundance in apples, boron supports strong bones and a healthy brain.
• Quercetin -- A flavonoid, this nutrient shows promise for reducing the risk of various cancers, including cancers in the lungs and breast.
• Vitamin C -- Vitamin C boosts immunity, which helps maintain overall health.
• Phytonutrients -- Apples are rich in a variety of phytonutrients, including vitamins A and E and beta carotene. These compounds fight damage from free radicals and can have a profound affect on health, including reducing the risk of heart disease, diabetes and asthma.

The article further discusses how apples are great but there is more to keeping a healthy body then just dieting which made me think about the importance of regularly going to the doctor for check ups even if you are one of those who likes to eat an apple a day. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention CDC, shares a little about  National Women's Health Week, May 13-19, 2012, which is "an annual observance to encourage women to make their health a priority and take simple steps for a safer and healthier life". With that I'd like to take a detour from the apple a day to taking more action like getting annual checkups.

I am not the best role model for what I am preaching but I know that taking about my physically health is as equally as important as taking care of my mental health. As a women, I would like to share the importance of getting check ups for problems that are more prone to women. Breast cancer is the first that comes to mine and well as cervical cancer. This link from Planned Parenthood is very informative and I would recommend for women who would like to inform themselves more on the issue. I have learned that an apple a day is a good start to keep the doctor away but I have also learned that we need to see our doctors once in a while to detect any life threatening health problems!