5 Things You Didn't Know About Apples by Better Eats

Photo Source: Smashed Peas and Carrots

We think it’s pretty safe to say that apples are definitely the most famous fruit. You’ve had the juice, eaten the sauce, and warmed up with cider on a chilly fall day. Teachers love them, Snow White eats them, and heck, you might even being reading this on a computer named after them! Yep, when it comes to fruit fame, apples definitely take the cake (er- pie). But even in spite of all this apple exposure, we think there’s a thing or two that might still surprise you. So, here are 5 things you might not know about apples:

1. THE WORK OUT WONDER
Apples help you make the most of your exercise because they contain a powerful little antioxidant called quercetin, which helps bring more oxygen to your lungs. As a result, you won’t get winded as quickly and can work out harder and longer with your increased endurance!


2. SAY BYE-BYE TO BROWN
If your little one won’t eat browned apple slices at lunch, we’ve got a few tricks to quiet those lunchbox complaints. Before packing them up, rinse them in cold water and squeeze fresh lemon on the slices. The lemon will keep the apple slices fresher, longer. Or, if you don’t have lemons on hand, you can slice them up then put the apple back together with a rubber band until it’s time to eat. Head over to Smashed Peas and Carrots for a detailed how-to. Makes for easy, crispy, just-sliced snacking!


3. THE RIGHT APPLE FOR THE RIGHT DISH
While all apples have health benefits and are extra tasty, some apples are better for baking than others. A Red Delicious makes a super snack, but is a poor choice for apple pie due to its lack of tangy flavor. Instead, try Granny Smith Apples the way we did with our Oatmeal Nut Crunch Apple Pie. If Macintosh, Empire, or Cortland Apples are more your speed, give our Old Fashioned Apple Nut Crisp a whirl!


4. AN APPLE A DAY…
An apple a day doesn’t just keep the doctor away, it can also keep your weight down. A medium apple has 4 soluble grams of fiber for just 95 calories, making it a super satisfying snack without adding to your calorie count. Plus, one medium apple counts for half of your daily servings of fruit- who doesn’t love that? Try our recipe for Grilled Apples with Cheese and Honey for a sweet way to shake it up.

5. EAT THE SKIN!
The skin of an apple is loaded with nutrients. It’s rich in vitamin A and C; minerals like calcium, potassium, folate, iron, and phosphorus; and antioxidants. Translation? The skin is great for your own skin, plus vision, immune system, bones, and heart, to name a few.