Most likely you are aware that eating an apple is healthier than drinking apple juice or eating applesauce because of the lower level of sugars absorbed by the body.   And because eating an apple with the skin contains the most fiber and nutrients it makes it better for us.   It goes without saying then, that when the least processed form of any food is consumed our bodies thrive.
 
And here's even more good news about eating the apple whole and untouched:  people ate approximately 190 fewer calories when eating an apple a half hour before lunch than people who ate applesauce, fiber fortified apple juice and plain apple juice (research done by Penn State University).
 
And if you are a pregnant woman or are planning on getting pregnant, eat lots of apples! Children tend to have lower rates of asthma when their mother's consume apples, Dutch research suggests.  Statistics show that over 20 million of Americans including 6.2 million children suffer from asthma.  Researchers speculate that the antioxidants and flavanoids including quercetin which works like a natural antihistamine help fight inflammation. This is also important since a Food and Drug Administration panel has voted unanimously to ban the asthma drugs Foradil and Serevent for children.
 
Apples are perfectly in season right now and there are so many ways to enjoy this naturally sweet treat. Apples dipped in honey make an easy and delicious dessert or snack for all ages.  Or try Apples with almond butter or sunflower seed butter- a great way to get your apple a day with protein, calcium, fiber and healthy fat. There are multiple varieties of apples- Fuji, Jonah Gold, Gala, green.  Try sampling different ones and try putting shredded apple into a cabbage/carrot slaw for a sweet twist. Yum!