Discover the health benefits of the humble apple and whip up a tasty treat for the whole family

The apple tree may have been dormant on January 6^th, but I’m sure some of you celebrated the fruit it bears regardless on National Apple Tree Day at the weekend. A fruit bowl favourite, apples offer many benefits and can be combined easily in a variety of culinary treats.

Here are just five great reasons you should incorporate an apple into your diet each day:

A healthier heart – Research has linked high soluble fibre intake with a slower build-up of cholesterol. What more, the phenolic compound found in apple skins prevents the cholesterol that finds its way into the system as a result of solidifying on your artery walls.
Detoxifies the liver – We’re constantly consuming toxins, via food or drinks. But thankfully, many health practitioners suggest that fruits, particularly apples, are hugely beneficial in detoxifying the liver.
Helps control weight – Certainly something we could all benefit from following overindulgence over the Christmas holidays! Many healthy problems are associated with being overweight (including stroke, heart disease and high blood pressure) but foods high in fibre won’t cost too many calories but will fill you up.
Boosts the immune system – Containing an antioxidant called quercetin, red apples can help boost and fortify the immune system. Enjoy a red apple when you’re feeling stressed, or when your mind and body is suffering as a result of a common cold or flu.
Diabetes management – Pectin in apples supplies galacturonic acid to the body, which helps to lower the body’s need for insulin. This, in turn, may aid in the management of diabetes.

Healthy Apple Pie

One of America’s favourite desserts, apple pie is enjoyed in thousands of households over the Christmas holiday period and during Thanksgiving. But you can enjoy a slice of tasty apple pie anytime, thanks to this deliciously health recipe:

You’ll need:

One-recipe pastry for a 9-inch double crust pie

¼ cup of unsalted butter
3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
¼ cup of water
½ cup of packed brown sugar
8 Granny Smith apples, cored, peeled and sliced

How to make:

Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Next, melt the butter in a saucepan and stir in flour to form a paste.
Add water and brown sugar, and bring to a boil. Reduce temperature and let simmer.
Place the bottom crust in your pan, before filling with apples and mounding slightly.
Cover with a lattice work of crust. Gently (and slowly) pour the sugar and butter liquid over the crust.
Finally, bake for around 15 minutes in the preheated oven. Reduce the temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Continue baking for 35 to 45 minutes, until apples are soft – and enjoy!

Will you be trying this tasty recipe? Do let us know what your favourite apple recipe is by commenting on our Facebook fan page at: https://www.facebook.com/NaturalCuresInc