By Heidi Harrabi

Austin Area Farmers’ Market

Apples are finally here.

Look for them starting Thursday, at our downtown location.

Ever wonder why we are told an apple a day keeps the doctor away? Here are 10 reasons.

1. Bone protection

French researchers found that a flavanoid called phloridzin that is found only in apples may protect post-menopausal women from osteoporosis and may also increase bone density. Boron, another ingredient in apples, also strengthens bones.

2. Asthma help

One recent study shows children with asthma who drank apple juice on a daily basis suffered from less wheezing than children who drank apple juice only once per month.

3. Alzheimer’s prevention

A study on mice at Cornell University found that the quercetin in apples may protect brain cells from the kind of free radical damage that may lead to Alzheimer’s disease.

4. Lower cholesterol

The pectin in apples lowers LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. People who eat two apples per day may lower their cholesterol by as much as 16 percent.

5. Lung cancer prevention

According to a study of 10,000 people, those who ate the most apples had a 50 percent lower risk of developing lung cancer. Researchers believe this is due to the high levels of the flavonoids quercetin and naringin in apples.

6. Breast cancer prevention

A Cornell University study found that rats who ate one apple per day reduced their risk of breast cancer by 17 percent.

Rats fed three apples per day reduced their risk by 39 percent and those fed six apples per day reduced their risk by 44 percent.

7. Colon cancer prevention

Research shows that the pectin in apples reduces the risk of colon cancer and helps maintain a healthy digestive tract.

8. Liver cancer prevention

Research found that rats fed an extract from apple skins had a 57 percent lower risk of liver cancer.

9.Diabetes management

The pectin in apples supplies galacturonic acid to the body which lowers the body’s need for insulin and may help in the management of diabetes.

10. Weight loss

A Brazilian study found that women who ate three apples or pears per day lost more weight while dieting than women who did not eat fruit while dieting.

Of course, the best reason is just because apples are delicious. This week you can also find fresh watermelon, cantaloupe, and much more.

The market is open 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Mondays and 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Saturdays at the Oak Park Mall, 3:30 to 6 p.m. Thursdays downtown on First Street NE, just east of the justice center, All major credit cards and EBT accepted.

EBT users, take advantage of our Blue Cross/Blue Shield matching bucks program. For the first $5 you spend, we will match it with an additional $5.

Source: www.healthdiaries.com