From Fiber to Flavonoids: Benefits and Side Effects of Apple Peel

According to a study published in June 2017 in a journal named NPJ Precision Oncology, apple peel contains ursolic acid which can prevent the growth of prostate cancer cells. In this study, researchers found that ursolic acid, a wax-like element found in apple peel, has anti-cancer properties. Apart from this, a compound called triterpenoid is also found in apple peel, which helps in fighting harmful cells that cause cancer. Therefore, apple peel also helps in keeping away problems like breast cancer, colon cancer and liver cancer.

(Read more - Is Apple Good for Diabetes Patients?)

If the apple is eaten with the peel, since the peel contains a high amount of fiber, after eating the apple with peel, your stomach feels full for a long time and you do not feel hungry. Apple peel contains one-third more fiber. It has been proven in many studies that consuming fiber does not make you feel hungry for a long time. Especially viscous fiber is found in apple peel, which helps in reducing hunger. When you feel less hungry and you eat less, it is obvious that it will help you lose weight.

(Read more - Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits, Uses)

Vitamin A and Vitamin C are also found in abundance in apple peel. A study conducted by the University of Illinois, USA, revealed that more than half of the total vitamin C present in an apple is found in its peel. While vitamin A is beneficial for eyesight and your skin, vitamin C strengthens your immune system, which keeps you away from diseases. Vitamin C also helps in healing wounds quickly.

(Read more- Fruits for Summer)

As already mentioned, various antioxidants are found in apple peel which prevent the process of oxidation of polyunsaturated fat in the body. Oxidation of these fats can cause the risk of heart disease. Therefore, if apples are eaten with the peel, then your heart remains healthy and the risk of heart disease can also be reduced.

(Read more- Fruits to Avoid in Diabetes)

According to Cornell University, apple peel contains many phytochemicals like flavonoids and phenolic acid which help in keeping your cells free from free radicals. These are the free radicals that attack your cells and cause many diseases. In such a situation, if your diet contains foods containing phytochemicals, then your risk of getting many dangerous diseases including diabetes and heart disease will be very low.

Flavonoids found in apples and their peels also help in preventing type 2 diabetes. According to Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, America, the risk of getting type 2 diabetes is greatly reduced in women who eat an apple daily without removing the peel. 

(Read more- Immunity boosting dry fruits and nuts)

Iron is also found in abundance in apple peel and due to this it can be a very healthy option for anemia patients. Apart from iron, folic acid or folate is also found in apple peel and due to this pregnant women are also advised to eat apples daily and that too with the peel. Iron and calcium found in apples also help in strengthening bones.

(Read more- Taadgola: The Tropical Fruit)