Adding apples to our daily intake can improve various aspects of our health, as they are loaded with fiber, vitamins, antioxidants and minerals.
Originating from a proverb in 1866, the phrase ‘An Apple A Day Keeps The Doctor Away’ was coined in 1913. The original quote was: Eat an apple on going to bed, and you’ll keep the doctor from earning his bread.

An Apple A Day

Eating an apple lowers the risk of heart disease, stroke, inflammation as it contains flavonoids. The soluble fibre reduces blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
The antioxidants and flavonoids also lower the risk of various kinds of cancer. It is also proven that a diet which has lots of fruits and vegetables protects us against many types of cancer.

Apples: Health-Rich Fruits

<ol>
<li>The fiber in apples supports weight loss due to the feeling of fullness.</li>
<li>Increases bone mineral density.</li>
<li>Helps keep the brain healthy.</li>
<li>Protection against asthma and Type 2 Diabetes.</li>
</ol>
Apples are unlikely to have any downside, though too much of it could have some side effects. It is better to include other fruits in our plate for a healthy, balanced diet.

Health Benefits Of Apples

<figure><picture class="css-16pk1is"><source srcset="https://i0.wp.com/post.healthline.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/apple-apples-1296x728-header.jpg?w=1575 750w" media="(min-width: 1190px)"><source srcset="https://i0.wp.com/post.healthline.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/apple-apples-1296x728-header.jpg?w=1575 750w" media="(min-width: 990px)"><source srcset="https://i0.wp.com/post.healthline.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/apple-apples-1296x728-header.jpg?w=1845 879w" media="(min-width: 768px)"><img src="https://i0.wp.com/post.healthline.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/apple-apples-1296x728-header.jpg?w=1155&amp;h=1528" alt="Plates with apples" width="690" height="388"></picture><figcaption dir="auto">Share on Pinterest</figcaption></figure>).Apples are also loaded with soluble fiber, which may help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels, both of which are risk factors for heart disease (<hl-trusted-source source="PubMed Central" rationale="Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health" dir="ltr"><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19335713/" rel="noopener noreferrer" dir="ltr">9</a></hl-trusted-source>).<h3>Contains cancer-fighting compounds</h3>Apples contain several compounds that may help prevent cancer formation, including antioxidants and <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/what-are-flavonoids-everything-you-need-to-know" dir="ltr">flavonoids</a> (<hl-trusted-source source="PubMed Central" rationale="Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health" dir="ltr"><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28911529/" rel="noopener noreferrer" dir="ltr">10</a></hl-trusted-source>).According to one review of 41 studies, consuming a higher amount of apples was associated with a decreased risk of developing lung cancer (<hl-trusted-source source="PubMed Central" rationale="Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health" dir="ltr"><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27000627/" rel="noopener noreferrer" dir="ltr">11</a></hl-trusted-source>).Another study observed similar findings, reporting that eating more apples was tied to a lower risk of colorectal cancer (<hl-trusted-source source="PubMed Central" rationale="Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health" dir="ltr"><a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19476292/" rel="noopener noreferrer" dir="ltr">12</a></hl-trusted-source>).Other research suggests that a diet rich in <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/fruits-vs-vegetables" dir="ltr">fruits and vegetables</a> could protect against cancer of the stomach, colon, lungs, oral cavity, and esophagus (<hl-trusted-source source="PubMed Central" rationale="Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3183591/" rel="noopener noreferrer" dir="ltr">13</a></hl-trusted-source>).However, more research is needed to evaluate the potential anticancer effects of apples and determine whether other factors may be involved.<h3>Other health benefits</h3>Apples have also been linked to several other <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-health-benefits-of-apples" dir="ltr">health benefits</a> that could help keep the doctor away:<UL><LI>Support weight loss. Due to their fiber content, apples have been shown to promote feelings of fullness, decrease calorie intake, and increase weight loss (<hl-trusted-source source="PubMed Central" rationale="Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2664987/" rel="noopener noreferrer" dir="ltr">14</a></hl-trusted-source></LI><LI>).</LI></UL><BLOCKQUOTE>SummaryApples are highly nutritious and have been associated with several health benefits, including improved heart health and a reduced risk of certain types of cancer.</BLOCKQUOTE><div><a name="downsides">Potential downsides</a></div>Eating an apple every day is unlikely to harm your health.However, it’s possible to have too much of a good thing, and eating multiple apples each day may cause several adverse side effects.In particular, rapidly increasing your intake of fiber over a short period of time can cause symptoms like gas, bloating, and stomach pain (<hl-trusted-source source="PubMed Central" rationale="Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health" dir="ltr"><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3400503/" rel="noopener noreferrer" dir="ltr">19</a></hl-trusted-source>).Like other fruits, apples also contain a good chunk of carbs in each serving (<hl-trusted-source source="FoodData Central" rationale="Highly respected food and nutrition database from the United States Department of Agriculture,Governmental authority" dir="ltr"><a href="https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/786631/nutrients" rel="noopener noreferrer" dir="ltr">2</a></hl-trusted-source>).While this is not a problem for most people, those following a low carb or <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ketogenic-diet-101" dir="ltr">ketogenic diet</a> may need to moderate their intake.<BLOCKQUOTE>SummaryEating an apple every day is unlikely to negatively affect your health. However, eating excessive amounts of apples every day could contribute to digestive issues.</BLOCKQUOTE><div>ADVERTISEMENT</div><div>Weight management options have evolved</div>Take our quiz to learn more about techniques and tips that will help you achieve your goals.<div><a name="other-options">Other healthy options</a></div>Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, apples are an excellent addition to the diet and may offer several health benefits.However, many fruits and vegetables offer a similar set of nutrients and can be equally beneficial for health.Plus, incorporating a variety of other fruits and vegetables into your routine can add more flavor and nutritional value to your diet.Here are a few other fruits and vegetables that you can swap in for apples from time to time:<UL><LI>bananas</LI><LI>broccoli</LI><LI>carrots</LI><LI>cauliflower</LI><LI>grapefruit</LI><LI>kale</LI><LI>peaches</LI><LI>pears</LI><LI>pineapples</LI><LI>raspberries</LI><LI>spinach</LI><LI>strawberries</LI><LI>tomatoes</LI></UL><BLOCKQUOTE>SummaryMany fruits and vegetables offer a set of nutrients and health benefits that are similar to those of apples, and they can be enjoyed as part of a healthy, balanced diet.</BLOCKQUOTE><div><a name="bottom-line">The bottom line</a></div>Although eating more apples may not literally be associated with fewer visits to the doctor, apples are rich in nutrients and offer several benefits for disease prevention and long-term health.In addition to apples, many other fruits and vegetables provide a similar set of nutrients and health benefits.For best results, enjoy a variety of fruits and vegetables as part of a nutritious, <a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/healthy-eating-for-beginners" dir="ltr">well-rounded diet</a>.<div><a name="Meal-Prep:-Apples-All-Day">Meal Prep: Apples All Day</a></div><video class="jw-video jw-reset" tabindex="-1" disableremoteplayback="" webkit-playsinline="" playsinline="" src="blob:https://www.healthline.com/7f2476a1-5856-49dc-ba11-3dec9c3bd9c3"></video><div>Meal Prep: Apples All Day</div><div>Volume 0%</div>

Apples are highly nutritious, but you may wonder whether they can really keep the doctor away. This article takes a close look at the old proverb and whether it holds true.

food

Food

health

Health

Apples are also loaded with soluble fiber, which may help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels, both of which are risk factors for heart disease (<hl-trusted-source dir="ltr" rationale="Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health" source="PubMed Central"><a dir="ltr" href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19335713/" rel="noopener noreferrer">9 </a> </hl-trusted-source>

Apples contain several compounds that may help prevent cancer formation, including antioxidants and <a dir="ltr" href="https://www.healthline.com/health/what-are-flavonoids-everything-you-need-to-know">flavonoids </a>(<hl-trusted-source dir="ltr" rationale="Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health" source="PubMed Central"><a dir="ltr" href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28911529/" rel="noopener noreferrer">10 </a> </hl-trusted-source>

According to one review of 41 studies, consuming a higher amount of apples was associated with a decreased risk of developing lung cancer (<hl-trusted-source dir="ltr" rationale="Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health" source="PubMed Central"><a dir="ltr" href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27000627/" rel="noopener noreferrer">11 </a> </hl-trusted-source>

Another study observed similar findings, reporting that eating more apples was tied to a lower risk of colorectal cancer (<hl-trusted-source dir="ltr" rationale="Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health" source="PubMed Central"><a dir="ltr" href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19476292/" rel="noopener noreferrer">12 </a> </hl-trusted-source>

Other research suggests that a diet rich in <a dir="ltr" href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/fruits-vs-vegetables">fruits and vegetables </a>could protect against cancer of the stomach, colon, lungs, oral cavity, and esophagus (<hl-trusted-source dir="ltr" rationale="Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health" source="PubMed Central"><a dir="ltr" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3183591/" rel="noopener noreferrer">13 </a> </hl-trusted-source>

However, more research is needed to evaluate the potential anticancer effects of apples and determine whether other factors may be involved.

Apples have also been linked to several other <a dir="ltr" href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-health-benefits-of-apples">health benefits </a>that could help keep the doctor away:

<ul><li>Support weight loss. Due to their fiber content, apples have been shown to promote feelings of fullness, decrease calorie intake, and increase weight loss (<hl-trusted-source dir="ltr" rationale="Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health" source="PubMed Central"><a dir="ltr" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2664987/" rel="noopener noreferrer">14 </a> </hl-trusted-source> </li><li>). </li> </ul>

Apples are highly nutritious and have been associated with several health benefits, including improved heart health and a reduced risk of certain types of cancer.

Eating an apple every day is unlikely to harm your health.

However, it’s possible to have too much of a good thing, and eating multiple apples each day may cause several adverse side effects.

In particular, rapidly increasing your intake of fiber over a short period of time can cause symptoms like gas, bloating, and stomach pain (<hl-trusted-source dir="ltr" rationale="Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health" source="PubMed Central"><a dir="ltr" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3400503/" rel="noopener noreferrer">19 </a> </hl-trusted-source>

Like other fruits, apples also contain a good chunk of carbs in each serving (<hl-trusted-source dir="ltr" rationale="Highly respected food and nutrition database from the United States Department of Agriculture,Governmental authority" source="FoodData Central"><a dir="ltr" href="https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/786631/nutrients" rel="noopener noreferrer">2 </a> </hl-trusted-source>

While this is not a problem for most people, those following a low carb or <a dir="ltr" href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ketogenic-diet-101">ketogenic diet </a>may need to moderate their intake.

Eating an apple every day is unlikely to negatively affect your health. However, eating excessive amounts of apples every day could contribute to digestive issues.

Take our quiz to learn more about techniques and tips that will help you achieve your goals.

Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, apples are an excellent addition to the diet and may offer several health benefits.

However, many fruits and vegetables offer a similar set of nutrients and can be equally beneficial for health.

Plus, incorporating a variety of other fruits and vegetables into your routine can add more flavor and nutritional value to your diet.

Here are a few other fruits and vegetables that you can swap in for apples from time to time:

<ul><li>bananas </li><li>broccoli </li><li>carrots </li><li>cauliflower </li><li>grapefruit </li><li>kale </li><li>peaches </li><li>pears </li><li>pineapples </li><li>raspberries </li><li>spinach </li><li>strawberries </li><li>tomatoes </li> </ul>

Many fruits and vegetables offer a set of nutrients and health benefits that are similar to those of apples, and they can be enjoyed as part of a healthy, balanced diet.

Although eating more apples may not literally be associated with fewer visits to the doctor, apples are rich in nutrients and offer several benefits for disease prevention and long-term health.

In addition to apples, many other fruits and vegetables provide a similar set of nutrients and health benefits.

For best results, enjoy a variety of fruits and vegetables as part of a nutritious, <a dir="ltr" href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/healthy-eating-for-beginners">well-rounded diet </a>.

An Apple a Day Keeps the Doctor Away — Fact or Fiction?

An Apple A Day

Apples: Health-Rich Fruits

Health Benefits Of Apples

Andrea A.'s ideas are part of this journey:

Related collections

Similar ideas