The benefits of taking an apple a day have been sung for ages but a new study on the same has established a link between eating apples and reducing cholesterol levels amongst middle aged persons. Summarily, the study was able to find 40 percent reduction of bad cholesterol in the body, an effect similar to those caused by taking medicine rich in polyphenols.
What is ‘bad cholesterol’?
Bad cholesterol, or what is referred to as LDL (Low-density lipoprotein), is a type of fat in the body that interacts with ease with the free radicals resulting to inflammation and damage of the body tissues. According to experts, LDL, after oxidation results to atherosclerosis or simply a condition that hardens the arteries.
Impact of taking an apple a day
According to the research, increased consumption of apples amongst the study group found a reduction in the oxidation of LDL in less than a month. The results exhibited cholesterol levels similar to those of individual with usual coronary arteries. Prof. DiSilvestro, a leading figure in the research, hailed the ability of apple consumption to reduce oxidation of LDL more than any other known antioxidant even green tea and tomatoes.
Process of the research
For this research, the study team had engaged a total of 51 individuals all aged between 40 and 60 years with no history of smoking, constant consumption of apples or any supplements with polyphenols and other relevant concentrates. Some of the participants were exposed to apples, others to polyphenols and the rest to placebos without any polyphenols. Those that took placebos recorded no reduction on oxidation of LDLs. It is these results that led to a conclusion that taking apples delivered effects similar to taking polyphenols.
Although polyphenols have immense effect on reduced oxidization of LDL, apples are better and stronger. There is still no telling what compounds are contained in apples that make them stronger. Additional benefit associated with apples is the reduced antioxidants in the mouth contributing positively to dental health. This research has generated huge interest amongst experts and will open door to more intense studies in the future.
Via – DailyMail
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