Apples are a great source of dietary fibre and carbohydrates, and are also a great source of Vitamin C. Nutritionists have found that just one medium sized apple can give you around 8% of your recommended daily intake of Vitamin C. The average apple has 21 grams of carbohydrates, 160 grams of potassium and 350 kilojoules. The complex carbohydrates in apples give your body a longer, more sustained energy boost than high sugar snacks.

Some more helpful and interesting information on just how good apples are for you:

Reducing Cholesterol

Apples are a major source of pectin, which is a soluble fibre found in most fruit and vegetables. Numerous studies on nutrition have found that pectin helps to reduce cholesterol levels.

Cancer Prevention and Healthy Lungs

The United States National Cancer Institute has reported that foods containing flavonoids like those found in apples may reduce the risk of lung cancer by as much as 50%. Apples have the highest concentration of flavonoids of any fruit. Apples have been found to contain more cancer fighting anti-oxidant than a 1,500 milligram megadose of Vitamin C.

Healthy Teeth

The journal of the American Dental Association in 1998 found that apple juice contains condensed tannins which have properties that may help prevent periodontal or gum disease.

Weight Loss

Apples are a great source of dietary fibre which helps aid digestion and promotes weight loss. Apples in fact contain more fibre than most cereals.

Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention

The British Medical Journal in 1996 quoted " a Finnish study published in 1996 showed that people who eat a diet rich in flavonoids have a lower incidence of heart disease. Other studies indicate that flavonoids may help to prevent strokes"

Stronger, Healthier Bones

Apples contain boran, an essential trace element that helps harden the bones. Strong bones help prevent osteoporosis in men and women.