APPLES

A fresh apple is an ideal snack. Its easy to carry, flavorful, filling, and low in calories; a 5 oz (140 g) piece of fruit has only 90 calories. Apples can be eaten fresh or cooked in myriad ways - baked into pies, crisps, and tats; added to poultry stuffing and made into jelly, apple butter, and sauce. Apple cider vinegar is an ingredient in many salad dressings. Pasteurized apple juice and fresh pressed cider are popular drinks, while fermented apple cider, wine, and brandy are gaining in popularity.
    Wash off the pesticide. Apple tress thrive in most temperate climates, but since they are vulnerable to worms, scale, and other insects, they are usually sprayed with pesticides several times. Apples should always be washed carefully before eating; some experts even suggest peeling them, especially if they have been waxed. The wax itself is not a problem but it may prevent pesticide residues from being rinsed off.

BENEFITS

• Low in calories and high in soluble fiber that help lower cholesterol.
• Packed with numerous phytochemicals such as quercetin that may help prevent heart disease and cancer.
• Apples enhance dental hygiene.

DRAWBACKS

• Relatively low in nutrients.
• Skin may contain pesticide residues.