Ask the Dietitian: An Apple A Day

Melissa Kirdzik, my dietitian during my year as Shape magazine's Weight-Loss Diary columnist, is back today to talk about one of my favorite fall treats: Apples. Here's what she had to say on this tasty subject:

 

Apples are an excellent addition to any healthy diet. Not only are they high in soluble and insoluble fiber, which helps to control cholesterol levels and improve bowel health, they've also got Vitamin C, potassium, phytochemicals and antioxidants. What don't apples have? Fat, saturated fat, sodium or cholesterol!

 

The best apples for eating are Macintosh, Gala, Golden Supreme, Macoun, Cortland, Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, Red Delicious, Fuji and more. Pretty much any variety that you like can be enjoyed as a fresh snack.

 

If you're making applesauce, try Granny Smith, Macintosh, Crispin, Jonagold or Red Rome. Apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, Cortland and Empire are also great chopped up in a salad. If you want to make sweet cider, try Red or Green Delicious, or Fuji varieties. Granny Smith and Macintosh make a great sharp cider. You can also use Granny Smith, Macintosh or any tart apple to make apple butter, which is a great replacement for shortening in many recipes.

 

If you're making a pie (What? Do my ears deceive me?), try Macintosh, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Cortland or any crisp apple variety.

 

Thanks, Melissa, for stopping by to tell us why apples are good for us. And just think -- if you go pick your own, you're bound to burn off some calories, and enjoy a beautiful fall day, in the process. Happy picking!

Comments

[MizFit]

and friday is JOHNNY APPLESEED DAY!

[Sagan]

Omigoodness.

I love this.

Apples are the BEST. I eat apples every day. I even have a cookbook called the Apple Book.

Did I mention that I love this post? :)