6 Nutritional Benefits of Bramley Apples
Bramley apples can be used in a huge range of recipes from pies to puddings, cakes to compotes and everything in between. With so many options, it’s no wonder that in the UK we eat around 100 million fresh Bramley apples (and 250 million processed apples) every year.
But aside from being a tasty treat and versatile ingredient, these apples are also bursting with nutrients and can be eaten as part of a healthy diet. In moderation, of course.
But if you’re not familiar with all the nutritional qualities of these apples, this guide is for you. Here are six nutritional benefits of eating Bramley apples.
1. They are rich in antioxidants
These apples are rich in antioxidants which can have a number of health benefits. For one thing, antioxidants can support disease prevention, reducing the risk of developing common illnesses like heart disease and certain types of cancer.
Not only this, but antioxidants have been linked to eye health and brain function and they can even help to reduce inflammation. Therefore, by adding more Bramley apples to your diet, you could support your health in many ways and lower your risk of becoming ill.
2. They are full of vitamin C
As well as antioxidants, apples are also packed with a huge range of vitamins, but Bramley apples in particular have much higher levels of vitamin C when compared with other varieties.
This is good news as Vitamin C has been linked to a whole range of health benefits. For one thing, this is needed to form our blood vessels, bones, muscles and cartilage and help with the healing process. This can be particularly helpful for young, growing children.
Not only that, but Vitamin C can boost antioxidant levels (which as we know, is good news), improve iron absorption, boost your immunity and reduce the risk of heart disease and dementia.
As if that wasn’t enough these apples also contain a whole host of other vitamins including A, E, B1, B2 and B6.
3. They are packed with potassium
Alongside vitamin C, Bramley apples also have higher amounts of potassium than other varieties. This mineral is crucial for helping your cells, muscles and nerves function normally. It also helps to regulate your heart and allows your body to create proteins and digest carbohydrates.
As well as potassium, these apples also contain manganese and copper; though these are in much lower levels.
4. They are high in fibre
Apples are naturally high in fibre. In particular, one key type of fibre found in Bramley apples is pectin, this has been associated with improved gut health, as a result of its prebiotic nature.
Not only that, but foods that are high in fibre like these apples can aid in lowering your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. This, in turn, can help to control weight loss and blood sugar levels, but we’ll look at this in more detail next.
5. They aid in sugar level stabilisation
As we said, apples have the ability to aid in sugar level stabilisation as they can reduce insulin resistance. This can lower the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. What’s more, this also makes them an ideal sweet snack for those who already suffer from diabetes.
6. They are low in fat
Finally, apples are low in fat and sodium and they are free from saturated fat. Plus, Bramley apples are packed with fructose and contain only naturally occurring sugars. This can make them a great substitute for sugar if you’re trying to cook tasty, low-fat meals or desserts.
This means that as well as being great for those with diabetes, these apples are also favoured by those trying to lose weight or watch their fat intake.
Could Bramley apples be the healthy fruit you’re looking for?
Sure, all fruit has its nutritional benefits, but Bramley apples are very versatile and have a huge range of uses in the kitchen. They can be used as part of a healthy diet and are a great substitute for sugar or sweeteners in cooking.
But no matter how you choose to use them, one thing is for sure, eating these apples can help your body to function as it should, whilst also reducing your risk of common illnesses.
So, if Bramley apples aren’t already a staple in your kitchen, they should be.