Researchers: 1 apple a day helps with better heart health

An apple a day may not keep the doctor away, but it could improve your heart health. Apples are packed with fiber and plant compounds that researchers say may support healthy blood pressure.

Apples are linked to good heart health, in part because their nutrients may help lower blood pressure.

"Apples are particularly rich in flavonoids, including quercetin and proanthocyanidins, as well as phenolic acids and dietary fiber. These compounds may support cardiovascular health through multiple mechanisms," said John Higgins, MD, a cardiologist at UTHealth Houston.

1. Flavonoids help blood vessels relax

Flavonoids, a type of plant compound in apples, signal blood vessels to dilate slightly, making it easier for blood to flow, Higgins said.

2. Polyphenols soothe inflammation

Apples contain antioxidants called polyphenols. They are natural anti-inflammatories, and less inflammation means less stress on your arteries over time.

3. Antioxidants act as a shield against cell damage

According to Higgins, the antioxidants in apples protect blood vessels from daily wear and tear caused by unstable molecules in the body.

4. Fiber supports healthier arteries

The soluble fiber in apples helps lower cholesterol and keep your arteries flexible, two factors that support better long-term blood pressure control.

A review found that eating whole apples, about one average apple a day, is linked to modest improvements in blood pressure, cholesterol, inflammation and blood vessel function, reducing the risks of heart disease and stroke./CNA

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