Eating apples on a regular basis helps moderately reduce bad cholesterol levels, gastroenterologist Evgeny Belousov told news outlet Izvestia.
Dr Belousov explained that apples contain pectin, a soluble dietary fibre found naturally in plant cell walls. In the intestine, pectin binds to a portion of bile acids, which the body synthesises using cholesterol.
Because these bile acids are bound and excreted, the liver must actively consume more cholesterol from the bloodstream to manufacture new bile acids. This biological process can lead to a moderate reduction in low-density lipoproteins, commonly known as LDL or bad cholesterol.
Low-density lipoproteins transport cholesterol through the blood to body tissues, but elevated levels can cause fatty plaque deposits to build up in blood vessels, increasing cardiovascular risk. Gastroenterology is the branch of medicine dedicated to the digestive system and its organs, including the liver, stomach, and intestines.
How pectin and polyphenols support vascular health
In addition to pectin, Dr Belousov noted that apples contain polyphenols. These plant-based antioxidants have a positive effect on vascular health by helping to protect blood vessels.
Polyphenols are naturally occurring chemical compounds found in many fruits and vegetables that reduce oxidative stress and help maintain healthy blood vessels. Izvestia is a long-established daily newspaper and news organisation based in Moscow.
Best practices for eating apples and fruit alternatives
The gastroenterologist emphasised that no single variety of apple is healthier than any other. He advised choosing either fresh or baked apples and eating them with the skin on, as apple peel contains a high concentration of beneficial substances.
However, Dr Belousov clarified that processed apple products should not be considered a healthy substitute for fresh fruit. He warned that apple juice, jam, preserves, and apple-based desserts do not provide the same health benefits as whole fruit.
Related dietary advice on banana consumption
The guidance follows previous dietary comments from nutritionist Nicole Dandrea-Russert regarding other popular fruits. Dandrea-Russert stated that some individuals may experience poor tolerance when eating bananas.
In her opinion, people suffering from kidney diseases should avoid overconsuming bananas. Bananas contain high amounts of potassium, a mineral that impaired kidneys may have difficulty filtering from the body.
