Health:
Apples have an abundance of antioxidants, which work to help boost the immune system, according to a Medical News Today article. Vitamin C is an example of one of these antioxidants, working to improve the body’s ability to fight infections. B-complex vitamins — including riboflavin and thiamin — also have a role in maintaining the body’s health, due to their benefits for the nervous system and red blood cells, according to the article.

Apples are also a great source of dietary fiber, which can prevent obesity, strokes and certain diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease. They can also help keep blood pressure from reaching an unhealthy level. Apples contain minerals like calcium, potassium and phosphorous, all of which are great for bone health and the immune system, according to the article.

Uses:
October is National Apple Month, which means there is a variety of options for those wishing to incorporate more apples into their diet. One could simply slice up an apple and put it in a salad, eat it with peanut butter or melted chocolate.

For more festive desserts, shredded apples could be made into fresh apple bread by mixing in cinnamon and brown sugar to a bread mixture, according to the article. Apple crisp and apple pie are also staples for the autumn months. Fresh apple slices could be paired with a spiced fruit dip made from blended firm silken tofu, brown sugar and cinnamon.