Apples are nutrition powerhouses. An apple a day, may really help keep the doctor away. Research links eating apples with reduction of complications or prevention of various diseases, including Alzheimer’s, asthma, cancer, heart disease and type II diabetes. The fiber in apples helps to control blood sugar levels and lowers cholesterol levels. Apples are low in calories and high in fiber. One medium apple contains only about 80 calories and 5 grams of fiber.
According to the University of Nebraska Extension (www.food.unl.edu), there are around 100 varieties of apples grown commercially in the United States, but only about 15 make up the majority of apple productions. Each variety is unique. The U.S. Apple Association has a useful guide to apple varieties.
Check it out at http://usapple.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/AppleVarietyGuide.pdf
Join us on October 19th in the WMHS cafeteria to celebrate Food Day Apple Crunch Day 2017. Stop by the cafeteria between 11:30 and 1 pm and bite into a juicy apple and show your commitment to eat well for better health.
This season, try making your own apple chips. Preheat oven to 200-225 degrees F. Slice apples very thinly (mandolin works well, but not mandatory) and place in a single layer on baking sheets lined with parchment paper or silpat. Sprinkle with cinnamon. Bake for 1 hour, flip over and bake for another hour. Turn off oven and let cool in oven. Cooking times may vary depending on oven, so watch carefully towards the end.
For more nutrition information, contact Theresa Stahl, RDN, LDN, FAND, WMHS Outpatient Community Dietitian at tstahl@wmhs.com or 240-964-8416.
