1/29/08 Apples Are Heart Food

Apples Are Heart Food. I'm Greg Martin with today's Fruit Grower Report. You have heard me over and over tout the health benefits of a fresh fruits and vegetables. Each one has their own distinct benefits and according to Emily Butzer, an intern for U.S. Apple, the apple continues to show great health benefits including the ability to lower cholesterol levels. BUTZER: The fiber in apples may also improve heart health by improving cholesterol levels and by lowering blood pressure. Apples contain soluble fiber which helps to regulate cholesterol in the body by preventing fatty buildup in the blood vessels thus promoting the heart health. Also high blood pressure is more likely to decrease through consumption of fiber containing fruits and vegetables and with 5 grams of fiber per large apple, apples are an excellent source. A recent study showed that for every 10 grams of fiber consumed in a day your risk of heart disease decreases anywhere from 10 to 30%. Not bad, huh? Heart disease has been increasing in the U.S. and around the world. BUTZER: Studies have shown that consuming apples may help reduce the risk of heart disease and heart disease is a great concern because it is a leading cause of death in the United States and the number one killer of American women. Every February, the American Heart Association sponsors American Heart Month to educate the public, especially women about heart disease. The U.S. Apple Association is promoting American Heart Month by encouraging Americans to eat apples and educating them about apples heart healthy benefits. That's today's Fruit Grower Report. I'm Greg Martin on the Northwest Ag Information Network.