Apples are on Dr. Sebi’s food list (Dr. Sebi’s nutritional guide).
What are apples?
Apples are one of the most widely consumed fruits in the world, with a rich history and many health benefits.
The scientific name for apples is Malus pumila, and they are a part of the Rosaceae family, which also includes pears, quinces, and peaches. Apples are available in many varieties, sizes, and colors, and they have a range of culinary and medicinal uses.
Other Names:
Apples are also known as Malus, Apple tree, Fruit apple, Cider apple, Wild apple, Crabapple, and more.
Habitat:
Apples are native to Central Asia, but they are now widely cultivated across the world, including in Europe, North and South America, and Australia. They thrive in temperate climates and are usually grown in orchards.
Description:
Apples are a round or oval-shaped fruit, usually between 2-3 inches in diameter, with a thin skin that can be smooth or slightly rough. The flesh of the apple is firm and juicy, with a central core containing the seeds. The color of the skin and flesh can vary, depending on the variety of the apple.
Status:
Apples are a natural fruit, but some varieties have been developed through hybridization, and there are some genetically modified (GMO) apples available as well.
Species of apple
List of known species
There are over 7,500 known cultivars of apples, but they can be grouped into three categories: dessert, culinary, and cider. Some of the most popular varieties include:
- Granny Smith
- Red Delicious
- Gala
- Honeycrisp
- Fuji
- Braeburn
- Golden Delicious
- Jonathan
- McIntosh
Wild species
The wild species of apples are Malus sieversii, which is native to Central Asia. These wild apples are the ancestors of the domesticated apple and have a similar taste to modern apples, but they are smaller and have a harder texture. This species is considered to be the ancestor of the domesticated apple (Malus pumila). While there are over 7,500 known cultivars of apples, all of them are descended from this wild species.
Benefits of apples
Mineral Content
Apples are a good source of many essential minerals, including potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iron. They are also rich in dietary fiber.
Medicinal value
Apples have been found to have many health benefits, including reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. They are also a good source of antioxidants, which help to protect the body against damage from free radicals. Apples have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce inflammation in the body, and they can also improve digestion and boost the immune system.
Culinary uses
Apples are a versatile fruit that can be used in a range of culinary dishes, including desserts, salads, sauces, and savory dishes. They can be eaten raw, cooked, or baked, and they are often used in pies, tarts, and cakes. Apples can also be used to make cider and apple juice.
Research information for apples
There is ongoing research into the health benefits of apples, including their potential to reduce the risk of cancer, improve brain function, and promote weight loss. Some studies have found that eating apples can help to lower cholesterol levels and improve cardiovascular health. Other research has investigated the potential for apple extracts to be used in skincare products.
Apple Recipe
There are countless recipes that feature apples as a key ingredient. Here are a few examples:
Alkaline Apple Salad
Ingredients:
2 apples, cored and sliced
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1/4 cup diced red onion
1 tbsp lime juice
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, chopped walnuts, cilantro and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the apple mixture and toss to combine.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
This apple salad is a great alkaline vegan recipe because it’s packed with fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
Is Apple an Alkaline Fruit?
No, apples are not considered alkaline fruits. In fact, they are acidic with a pH ranging from 3.3 to 4.0. However, when consumed, apples have an alkalizing effect on the body, meaning they help to balance the body’s pH levels by reducing acidity. This is due to their high content of minerals like potassium, magnesium, and calcium, which are alkalizing in nature. However, take note of the type of apple you consumes – how far removed from the original is it?
As Dr. Sebi pointed out it’s best to consume naturally non-hybrid or GMO foods, however most of what we see in the supermarket are not the original wild species – that includes apples. Apples are on Dr. Sebi’s food list or nutritional guide because despite their status, they are considered to be one of the least detrimental foods, among what is available on the market.
Are Gala Apples Acidic or Alkaline
Gala apples are believed to be derived from two apple cultivars, Kidd’s Orange Red and Golden Delicious. The Gala apple was first developed in New Zealand in the 1930s by horticulturist J.H. Kidd, who crossbred the two cultivars to create a new apple variety that was both sweet and flavorful. The resulting fruit was named “Gala” after an apple festival in the town of Hawke’s Bay, where the first Gala tree was planted. Today, Gala apples are one of the most popular apple varieties worldwide, known for their distinctive yellow-orange skin with red stripes, crisp texture, and sweet flavor.
Overall, apples are a delicious and nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether eaten fresh, cooked, or baked, they offer many health benefits and are a versatile ingredient in many culinary dishes. With so many varieties to choose from, there is an apple for everyone.
References
– “Apples.” The World’s Healthiest Foods. https://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=15
– “Apples: Health Benefits, Risks & Nutrition Facts.” Live Science. https://www.livescience.com/44686-apple-nutrition-facts.html
– “Apples.” National Center for Biotechnology Information. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279395/
– “Apple (Malus pumila) Facts.” California Rare Fruit Growers. https://www.crfg.org/pubs/ff/apple.html
– “10 Surprising Health Benefits of Apples.” Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-health-benefits-of-apples
– “Apple Recipes.” Food Network. https://www.foodnetwork.com/topics/apple
