South Africa exported R9.7 billion in apples and pears during 2020 , making it the seventh-largest exporter of these pome fruits , and there are actually many more varietals of apple available than most people have ever heard of . As Gysbert du Toit , from one of the country ’ s leading apple producers , Dutoit Agri , explains , “ We produce 13 varieties of apples , which means we have apples readily available throughout the year . Our range includes traditional options , such as the good old Granny Smith , Golden Delicious and a variety of red cultivars , as well as some exciting new varieties giving consumers a whole new and exciting taste experience , such as the Kissabel we are currently testing , as well as the Pink Lady , KANZI and Opal varieties that are growing in popularity .” |
This article was supplied by Atmopshere PR on behalf of DuToit Agri . More info at https :// dutoitagri . co . za |
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Images : Unsplash . com & courtesy Atmosphere PR |
Finding apples to add to your daily diet is clearly not a problem . In fact , Dutoit Agri ’ s apples are available as part of the 5-a-day campaign at selected Pick n Pay stores , promoting the inclusion of at least five fruits in your daily diet . But why should one of these five be an apple ? According to Johannesburg-based nutritionist , Sarah Wildy , who specialises in family nutrition , “ One apple gives you 20 % of your daily value , or DV , of fibre and 2 % of your DV of vitamin A , iron and calcium . They also give you 8 % of your DV of vitamin C . This makes them an excellent snack , giving you an instant energy boost without the crash so often associated with an unnatural sugar high . Apples also score a healthy 35 on the Glycaemic Index .”
She adds that eating apples regularly , along with other healthy whole foods , can contribute to better overall health and reduced risk of developing certain chronic health conditions . “ It is indeed a nutritional powerhouse – you should , however , always try to eat it whole and unpeeled , to get the full benefit of this fruit .”
Multiple Health Benefits
However , the benefits of apples don ’ t stop there . According to various research projects , additional benefits include :
1 Avoid Alzheimer ’ s : A study has shown that drinking apple juice could fight the effects of aging on the brain , and keep Alzheimer ’ s away .
2 Curb various cancers : Scientists from the American Association for Cancer Research agree that the consumption of flavonoid-rich apples could
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help reduce your risk of developing pancreatic cancer by up to 23 %. Researchers at Cornell University have identified several compounds in apple peel that have potent anti-growth activities against cancer cells in the liver , colon and breast . Meanwhile , the National Cancer Institute in the US has recommended a high fibre intake to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer .
3 Healthier hearts : Studies have shown that plant chemicals , particularly in the apple peel , combined with pectin fibre can help to protect against free radical damage in the heart and blood vessels , and have cholesterol-lowering effects .
4 Decreased risk of diabetes : Women who eat at least one apple a day are 28 % less likely to develop type 2 diabetes than those who don ’ t eat apples on a regular basis .
5 Whiter , healthier teeth : Apples won ’ t replace your toothbrush , but biting and chewing an apple can stimulate the production of saliva in your mouth and reduce tooth decay by lowering the levels of bacteria . Calcium and phosphorus are the two most important minerals our teeth are made up of , and are also responsible for the strength of dental enamel . Apples are full of these essential minerals , and giving your little one at least one apple a day will help to keep their teeth strong .
6 Control your weight : Many health problems are associated with being overweight , such as heart disease , stroke , high blood pressure , type 2 diabetes and sleep apnoea . To manage weight
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and improve overall health , doctors and nutritionists recommend a diet rich in fibre , and apples provide great fibre .
7 Prevent gallstones : When there ’ s too much cholesterol in your bile for it to remain as a liquid , it solidifies to form gallstones , particularly when people are obese . To prevent gallstones , doctors recommend a diet high in fibre – that means more apples – to help you control your weight and cholesterol levels .
8 Detoxify the liver : Your liver is responsible for clearing toxins out of your body , and one of the best ( and easiest ) things you can eat to help detoxify your liver is fruits , like apples .
9 Boost your immune system : Red apples contain an antioxidant called quercetin , and recent studies have found that it can help boost and fortify your immune system , especially when you ’ re stressed .
Good for the Whole Family
Packed with minerals and vitamins , luscious apples – especially the red ones – are a favourite lunchbox snack among youngsters . Since they are composed of 90 % water along with fructose and glucose , both of which are important carbohydrates that supply kids ’ bodies with the energy that prevents fatigue while helping them stay more focused and making them feel fuller for longer . Just remember , when buying apples , you should refrigerate them to keep them fresh for longer .
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