Perhaps the first fruit tree ever to be cultivated by man, apples have often been regarded, mistakenly, as a mystical and forbidden fruit.

In fact, research has proven that the old saying “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” is closest to the truth. Apples are known to possess many health benefits, to help with heart disease, weight loss, cholesterol, even reduce the risk of several forms of cancer.<!--more-->

Here are 5 benefits of apples:
<ol>
	<li><a href="http://www.besthealthmag.ca/eat-well/nutrition/15-health-benefits-of-eating-apples">Reduce cholesterol</a> - The soluble fiber found in apples binds with fats in the intestine, which helps lower cholesterol levels.</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.besthealthmag.ca/eat-well/nutrition/15-health-benefits-of-eating-apples">Boost your immune system</a> - Red apples contain an antioxidant called quercetin. Recent studies have found that quercetin can help boost and fortify your immune system, especially when you're stressed out.</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.eatingwell.com/nutrition_health/nutrition_news_information/5_health_benefits_of_an_apple?page=4">Heart Health </a>- Apples are associated with a lower risk of death from both coronary heart disease and cardiovascular disease.</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.arthritistoday.org/what-you-can-do/eating-well/arthritis-diet/apples-inflammation.php">Reduce inflammation</a> - Apples are a source of antioxidants that help rid the body of cell-damaging free radicals and may help suppress inflammation.</li>
	<li><a href="http://www.mnn.com/food/healthy-eating/stories/10-reasons-to-eat-an-apple-a-day">Vitamins and Minerals</a> - Apples are packed with vitamins C, A, and flavonoids and with smaller amounts of phosphorus, iron and calcium.</li>
</ol>
Here are a few tips for adding apples to your daily diet:
<ul>
	<li>Grate apples and add to pancake, waffle or muffin batter.</li>
	<li>Toss a few slices on your oatmeal or cereal.</li>
        <li>Include apples in your smoothies.</li>
       	<li>Toss a few slices on top of your salad.</li>
	<li>Carry slices in a sandwich bag to nibble on throughout the day.</li>
	<li>Have a few slices of apple with peanut butter for a mid-afternoon snack.</li><ol>



	