We all know that an apple a day keeps the doctor away, but new research suggests the humble fruit might also keep wrinkles at bay.
A study, published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, has shown that polyphenols found in apples extended the average lifespan of fruit flies and helped to maintain their ability to walk and move.
Apple polyphenols also lowered levels of various bio-markers seen in older fruit flies which are associated with reduced activity and death.
In addition to their anti-ageing benefits, apples are a nutritional powerhouse, containing dozens of phytochemicals, including the anti-allergy flavonoid quercetin, and more potassium than fresh oranges.
They also supply a booster shot of natural vitamin C, antioxidants and flavonoids, and rank as one of the top 15 fruits and vegetables for fibre to help prevent constipation and encourage a healthy bowel environment, including the fibre pectin, which helps the body’s hormonal disposal system work better, stabilising blood pressure.
The only downside of an apple a day? They are one of the Environmental Protection Authority’s so-called ‘dirty dozen’ fruit and veg, meaning that it’s often heavily sprayed — so buy organic whenever possible.
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