Nothing says fall has arrived like the abundance of apples and cider. While we all know apples are good for us, new research has found that eating them regularly may increase certain friendly bacteria in the gut.
Microbiologists from the National Food Institute at the Technical University of Denmark found this to be true in rats who ate a diet high in dietary fiber found in apples, called pectin.
"It seems that when apples are eaten regularly and over a prolonged period of time, these bacteria help produce short-chain fatty acids that provide ideal pH conditions for ensuring a beneficial balance of microorganisms," said co-researcher Andrea Wilcks. "They also produce a chemical called butyrate, which is an important fuel for the cells of the intestinal wall."
Because healthier intestinal tract translates into a stronger immunity, it makes sense why an apple a day keeps the doctor away.
Microbiologists from the National Food Institute at the Technical University of Denmark found this to be true in rats who ate a diet high in dietary fiber found in apples, called pectin.
"It seems that when apples are eaten regularly and over a prolonged period of time, these bacteria help produce short-chain fatty acids that provide ideal pH conditions for ensuring a beneficial balance of microorganisms," said co-researcher Andrea Wilcks. "They also produce a chemical called butyrate, which is an important fuel for the cells of the intestinal wall."
Because healthier intestinal tract translates into a stronger immunity, it makes sense why an apple a day keeps the doctor away.