Interesting Green: Healthy Fruit

Showing posts with label Healthy Fruit. Show all posts

Saturday, June 25, 2011

An apple a day

Today, Tuesday June 21, 2011, Page T11, Health
From http://imcmsimages.mediacorp.sg/CMSFileserver/documents/006/PDF/20110621/2106HLP050.pdf
Source Website: http://www.todayonline.com/Health/EDC110621-0000005/An-apple-a-day
By THE DAILY TELEGRAPH, 04:46 AM Jun 21, 2011

PHOTO: An apple a day ... really does keep the doctor away, say scientists
GETTY IMAGES, Copyright © MediaCorp Press Ltd
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Today, Tuesday June 21, 2011, Page T11, Health

RESEARCHERS have discovered that ursolic acid - a substance found in the fruit's peel - has natural body building qualities and could help people keep a toned, slender body.

It could even help with diabetes.

In experiments, they discovered that it boosts muscle growth by up to 15 per cent and reduces body fat by more than half.

It also has health giving properties - reducing blood sugar levels, cholesterol and harmful fatty acids, according to the new study.

Dr Christopher Adams, the study leader at the University of Iowa, said the substance could be especially useful in the elderly who naturally lose body muscle, known as atrophy.

"The old saying goes that 'an apple a day keeps the doctor away'," he said.

"Muscle atrophy causes big problems. It's also very common - it affects most people at some point in their lives, during illness or ageing. But, there's no medicine for it.

"We studied muscle gene activity in people with atrophy and used that information to find chemicals that might block atrophy.

"One of those chemicals was especially interesting. It's called ursolic acid and it's particularly concentrated in apple peels."

The study, published in the latest issue of the journal Cell Metabolism, showed that ursolic acid reduced muscle wasting in mice.

They believe the substance works by reprogramming genes that cause muscle wasting and fat build up.

"Interestingly, although ursolic acid increased muscle weight in mice, it did not increase total body weight, and further investigation showed that mice fed ursolic acid had less body fat than mice that were not fed the compound," he said.

Now they plan to try it on humans to see if it has the same effect.

By THE DAILY TELEGRAPH, 04:46 AM Jun 21, 2011

Reference

Today, Tuesday June 21, 2011, Page T11, Health
http://imcmsimages.mediacorp.sg/CMSFileserver/documents/006/PDF/20110621/2106HLP050.pdf
http://www.todayonline.com/Health/EDC110621-0000005/An-apple-a-day
http://imcmsimages.mediacorp.sg/cmsfileserver/showimageCC.aspx?450&341&f=2247&img=2247_397065.jpg&h=450&w=341

Saturday, July 3, 2010

In the green of health

WEEKEND TODAY, JULY 3 - 4, 2010, FOOD, PAGE T4
From: http://imcms2.mediacorp.sg/CMSFileserver/documents/006/PDF/20100703/0307FDW004.pdf
From Website: http://www.todayonline.com/Food/EDC100703-0000036/In-the-green-of-health
By Tan Jun-Lei, junlei@mediacorp.com.sg, 05:55 AM Jul 03, 2010

PHOTO: Kiwi is big business in New Zealand.
Copyright © MediaCorp Press Ltd
http://www.todayonline.com/Food/EDC100703-0000036/In-the-green-of-health

PHOTO: Tan Jun-Lei (Center)
https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig68hWx2RsrtvTcbqKMXu6ePl1Zac49QbZvhjNYACbIzhqgWeziaD_drCsZ545tc5_JVD0D3Wj3Ub4UXc53XK0MO2UJAsmsDaaw4Xo2BUengf71ez9BmA892_O2sdR_yDmobpBmOWeAybl/s400/P3130184.JPG

Beneath the skin of the kiwi fruit is a bunch of surprises, as a trip to New Zealand reveals

The kiwi fruit is one of those fruits that might still be a novelty to some. Certainly its health benefits are not as well-known, some people, myself included, do not realise the kiwi fruit is incredibly rich in nutrients and antioxidants.

So when I was invited to check out Zespri kiwi fruit, the brand synonymous with quality kiwi fruit, in New Zealand, it was a chance to get up close and personal with this intriguing fruit.

PHOTO: Kiwi is big business in New Zealand.

http://www.todayonline.com/Food/EDC100703-0000036/In-the-green-of-health

http://imcms2.mediacorp.sg/CMSFileserver/documents/006/PDF/20100703/0307FDW004.pdf

Growing kiwi fruit, be it green, gold or organic, in New Zealand is big business. Introduced to the country in 1904 by Isabel Fraser, it is now marketed by Zespri International and has dug its roots far and deep both globally and within New Zealand.

One example of that is the Maori connection, best witnessed on Rangiwaea Island. A 20-minute ferry ride from Tauranga's Sebel Trinity Wharf in New Zealand's North Island, Rangiwaea consists largely of horticultural and agricultural blocks run by Maori owners, with the residents engaging in various activities such as forestry, arable farming, and of course, growing of kiwi fruit.

The fruit-growing system on Rangiwaea has a unique ownership structure - it is part of the Tauwhao Te Ngare Trust, which is responsible for ensuring the land is passed down from generation to generation and providing financial support to the island. Being an inter-generational business, the trustees and shareholders are connected to Rangiwaea via genealogy.

PHOTO: http://www.todayonline.com/Food/EDC100703-0000036/In-the-green-of-health
http://imcms2.mediacorp.sg/CMSFileserver/documents/006/PDF/20100703/0307FDW004.pdf

We had a field day picking green kiwi fruit at Western Orchards in Katikati, which is part of Zespri's supply community. As it was harvesting season, we got right down to work.

If you're looking for a good workout, picking kiwi fruit beats sweating it out in the gym, it's fast and furious from the get-go, and as many as 200 bins of kiwi fruit can be plucked daily.

It was more kiwi fruit at the dinner table as we feasted on the variety of dishes that could be made with kiwi fruit. It was amazing how versatile the kiwi fruit could be, be it appetiser, main course or dessert, the fruit made its presence felt. It was like killing two birds with one stone: You could satisfy your hunger and get your daily dose of Vitamin C.

PHOTO: Creative use of kiwi fruit: With oysters in a half shell, snapper and tortilla crisps and smoked salmon crepes.
http://www.todayonline.com/Food/EDC100703-0000036/In-the-green-of-health
http://imcms2.mediacorp.sg/CMSFileserver/documents/006/PDF/20100703/0307FDW004.pdf

One of my favourites was the smoked salmon crepes at the Mount Bistro restaurant in Mt Maunganui, the green kiwi fruit's tangy flavour blended perfectly with the freshness of the salmon.

Another favourite was the grilled loin of Hawke's Bay Lamb with chimichurri, sweet corn puree and kiwi fruit chutney that I had at the Cable Bay restaurant on Waiheke Island. Apart from being a natural meat tenderiser, the kiwi fruit really helped to bring out the flavours of the lamb.

For those with a sweet tooth, the gold kiwi fruit crème brulee of Mount Bistro is a must-try. Kiwi fruit mint dressing - which I tried at the Matahui Lodge in Katikati, was also the perfect complement for pasta and avocado cream rice salad.

PHOTO: Creative use of kiwi fruit: Kiwi fruit creme brulee and kiwi fruit and pavlova ice cream.
http://www.todayonline.com/Food/EDC100703-0000036/In-the-green-of-health
http://imcms2.mediacorp.sg/CMSFileserver/documents/006/PDF/20100703/0307FDW004.pdf

It's hard not to view the kiwi fruit in a new light after all this. Tasty, versatile and nutritionally dense, it has made me rethink my approach to healthy living. For a fruit that's barely the size of your palm, that's no mean feat.

PHOTO: Creative use of kiwi fruit: As a pavlova topping.
http://www.todayonline.com/Food/EDC100703-0000036/In-the-green-of-health
http://imcms2.mediacorp.sg/CMSFileserver/documents/006/PDF/20100703/0307FDW004.pdf

A Kiwi a day

About the size of a large hen's egg, the kiwi fruit is a tiny bundle of surprises. Here's what you'll be getting when you bite into the fruit.

PHOTO: http://www.todayonline.com/Food/EDC100703-0000036/In-the-green-of-health
http://imcms2.mediacorp.sg/CMSFileserver/documents/006/PDF/20100703/0307FDW004.pdf

Vitamins C, E and a small amount of A. The kiwi fruit outstrips the orange in terms of Vitamin C content. Recent studies have shown that Zespri's gold kiwi fruit packs in a 105.4mg of Vitamin C per 100g of edible flesh, with its green counterpart coming in a close second at 92.7mg (the orange is fifth at 53.2g). Vitamin C is essential for the healthy functioning of the immune system, and an adequate intake may help reduce the severity of conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, asthma and diabetic heart disease. Vitamin E also helps lower cholesterol, boost immunity and keep the skin supple.

The fruit's antioxidant properties also protect the body's cells from oxidative damage, thereby preventing the mutation of genes. Kiwi fruit has also been found to improve the body's uptake of iron from iron-fortified food, which is especially important for people suffering from iron deficiency. It also contains potassium, magnesium and folate, which are important for good health.

If you've ever had that bloated feeling after a high-protein meal or have digestive problems, eating kiwi fruit could help ease the discomfort, as kiwi fruit is rich in actinidin, a protein-dissolving enzyme. Kiwi fruit also serves as a natural blood thinner, and studies have shown that eating two or three a day significantly reduces the risk of blood clots.

Kiwi skin is edible and is a rich source of dietary fibre. Much of the vitamin content is stored under the skin, so don't peel the kiwi fruit when you eat it or you'll lose some of those precious nutrients. Fibre is good for lowering the risk of colon cancer and keeping blood sugar levels under control. Kiwi fruit seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease and stroke.

By Tan Jun-Lei, junlei@mediacorp.com.sg

PHOTO: http://www.todayonline.com/Food/EDC100703-0000036/In-the-green-of-health
http://imcms2.mediacorp.sg/CMSFileserver/documents/006/PDF/20100703/0307FDW004.pdf

Reference

Saturday, November 22, 2008

Apple & My Health

Tropical Fruits
(Picture is obtained from http://www.roasterscoffee.co.uk/images/fruit.jpg)

Apple belongs to the Malus species "domestica" in the rose family Rosaceae
(Picture is obtained from http://www.benikou.com/shopping/apple/apple_bestshot_big.jpg)

The fruit matures in autumn, and is typically 5 to 9 centimetres (2.0 to 3.5 in) diameter

(Picture is from http://www.ferrarifarms.com/Apple%20Pictures/P1010142.JPG

By Apples from Ferrari Farms, Inc., SPECIALIZING IN ORGANIC FRUIT & ORGANIC WALNUTS)

The leaves are alternately arranged simple ovals 5 to 12 cm long and 3–6 centimetres (1.2–2.4 in) broad with an acute tip, serrated margin and a slightly downy underside.

(Picture is obtained from http://www.ferrarifarms.com/Apple%20Pictures/P1010145.JPG

By Apples from Ferrari Farms, Inc., SPECIALIZING IN ORGANIC FRUIT & ORGANIC WALNUTS)

The centre of the fruit contains five carpels arranged in a five-point star, each carpel containing one to three seeds.

(Picture is obtained from http://www.ferrarifarms.com/Apple%20Pictures/P1010140.JPG

By Apples from Ferrari Farms, Inc., SPECIALIZING IN ORGANIC FRUIT & ORGANIC WALNUTS)

The flowers are white with a pink tinge that gradually fades, five petaled, and 2.5 to 3.5 centimetres (0.98 to 1.4 in) in diameter.

Picture is obtained from http://images-2.redbubble.net/img/art/size:large/view:main/1156624-2-duffs-crab-apple-tree.jpg

Green Apple. It is one of the most widely cultivated tree fruits.

(Picture is obtained from http://www.ferrarifarms.com/Apple%20Pictures/P1010152.JPG

By Apples from Ferrari Farms, Inc., SPECIALIZING IN ORGANIC FRUIT & ORGANIC WALNUTS)

Apple going to ripe. The fruit matures in autumn.

(Picture is obtained from http://www.bbc.co.uk/lancashire/content/images/2007/08/30/apple_tree_470x313.jpg)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.bbc.co.uk/cumbria/content/images/2006/09/01/gardening_20060901_apple_470x353.jpg

It's been a good year for fruit. These are early apples "James Grieve" ready to eat straight off the tree.)

Green Apple from Malus species "domestica" in the rose family Rosaceae

The tree is small and deciduous, reaching 5 to 12 metres (16 to 39 ft) tall, with a broad, often densely twiggy crown.

(Picture is obtained from http://www.redrivercamps.com/Images/Photos/Camp/A-AppleTreeM.jpg)

The tree originated from Central Asia.

(Picture is obtained from http://www.wisebread.com/files/fruganomics/imagecache/blog_image_full/files/fruganomics/blog-images/appletree.JPG)

Flowers are produced in spring simultaneously with the budding of the leaves.

(Picture is obtained from http://photos-from-ukraine.com/wallpapers/apple-tree-flowers.jpg)

The White-Pink beautiful flowers that appear in abundance during spring time

(Picture is obtained from http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9d/Apple_tree.jpg)

The Species of crabapple (?) with Pink beautiful flowers

(Picture is obtained from http://z.about.com/d/landscaping/1/0/1/O/hawthorn_closeup_large.jpg)

Very very new budding flowers during the cold start of spring

(Picture is obtained from http://gallery.photo.net/photo/4383837-lg.jpg)

An old apple tree still struggling to flower and bear fruit in its twilight year.

(Picture is obtained from http://lissadellhouse.com/update/data/upimages/apple_tree_for_flyer_or_web.jpg)

Apple health benefits - Reduced risk of cancer, heart disease, asthma, and type 2 diabetes

(Picture is obtained from http://img138.imageshack.us/img138/2358/appletree2ku9.jpg)

Green Apples with soft flesh type.

(Picture is obtained from http://www.aradise.com/photographs-autumn-fall/green_apple_tree.JPG)

Facts about apple
Extracted from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Apple
The apple belongs to the Malus species "domestica" in the rose family Rosaceae.

It is one of the most widely cultivated tree fruits. The tree is small and deciduous, reaching 5 to 12 metres (16 to 39 ft) tall, with a broad, often densely twiggy crown.

The leaves are alternately arranged simple ovals 5 to 12 cm long and 3–6 centimetres (1.2–2.4 in) broad with an acute tip, serrated margin and a slightly downy underside.

Flowers are produced in spring simultaneously with the budding of the leaves. The flowers are white with a pink tinge that gradually fades, five petaled, and 2.5 to 3.5 centimetres (0.98 to 1.4 in) in diameter.

The fruit matures in autumn, and is typically 5 to 9 centimetres (2.0 to 3.5 in) diameter. The centre of the fruit contains five carpels arranged in a five-point star, each carpel containing one to three seeds.

Apples are very nutritious.

There are more than 7,500 known cultivars of apples
(Picture is obtained from http://www.rahul.net/clb/pix/apples.JPG)

(Picture is obtained from http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j280/gardenplansireland/apple-tree-ireland-image-picture-ph.jpg)

The tree originated from Central Asia. There are more than 7,500 known cultivars of apples, varying in their yield and the ultimate size of the tree, even when grown on the same environment.

(Picture is obtained from http://www.gardenpics.net/images/Veggardens/large/gp100lg.jpg)

At least 55 million tonnes of apples were grown worldwide in 2005, with a value of about US$10 billion. China produced about 35% and United States is the second leading producer, with more than 7.5% of the world production. Turkey, France, Italy and Iran are also among the leading apple exporters.

(Picture is from http://www.ferrarifarms.com/Apple%20Pictures/P1010142.JPG

By Apples from Ferrari Farms, Inc., SPECIALIZING IN ORGANIC FRUIT & ORGANIC WALNUTS)

Description of the Fruit
http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?dbid=15&tname=foodspice
Apples are a crisp, white-fleshed fruit with a red, yellow or green skin.

Green Apple from Malus species "domestica" in the rose family Rosaceae

(Picture is obtained from http://www.jalna.com.au/Portals/11/grannysmith%20apple.JPG)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.foodmag.com.au/Uploads/PressReleases/food/Images-20080526/Apple.JPG)

Fruit and vegetables contained the right mix of antioxidants for a healthy immune system.

Apples have a moderately sweet, refreshing flavor and a tartness that is present to greater or lesser degree depending on the variety. For example, Golden and Red Delicious apples are mild and sweet, while Pippins and Granny Smith apples are notably brisk and tart. Tart apples, which best retain their texture during cooking, are often preferred for cooked desserts like apple pie, while Delicious apples and other sweeter varieties like Braeburn and Fuji apples are usually eaten raw.

(Picture is obtained from http://www.statesymbolsusa.org/IMAGES/New_York/redrome.jpg)

(Picture is obtained from http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3224/2350015548_d29544a290_o.jpg)

(Picture is obtained from http://ljtoots.org/fruitApple1c4.jpg)

Preserved Apple Fruit

(Picture is obtained from http://www.bikudo.com/photo_stock/767050.JPG)

Another form of preserving apple fruit
(Pictures is obtained from http://www.germes-online.com/direct/dbimage/50088311/IQF_Apple_and_Apricot.jpg)

Apple breeding

Like most perennial fruits, apples ordinarily propagate asexually by grafting.
(Picture is obtained from http://www.allotment.org.uk/greenhouse/fruit/assets/apple.jpg)

Seedling apples are an example of "Extreme heterozygotes". They are different from their parents, sometimes radically.

(Picture is obtained from http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c3/Apple_tree_blossom.JPG

Apple blossom from an old Ayrshire variety)

Most new apple cultivars originate from seedlings. Apples can also form bud sports (mutations on a single branch). Some bud sports turn out to be improved strains of the parent cultivar. Some differ sufficiently from the parent tree to be considered new cultivars.

(Picture is obtained from http://www.ferrarifarms.com/Apple%20Pictures/P1010153.JPG

By Apples from Ferrari Farms, Inc., SPECIALIZING IN ORGANIC FRUIT & ORGANIC WALNUTS)

Breeders can produce more rigid apples through crossing. For example, the Excelsior Experiment Station of the University of Minnesota has, since the 1930s, introduced a steady progression of important hardy apples that are widely grown, both commercially and by backyard orchardists, throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin. Its most important introductions have included 'Haralson' (which is the most widely cultivated apple in Minnesota), 'Wealthy', 'Honeygold', and 'Honeycrisp'.

(Picture is obtained from http://www.freefoto.com/images/15/08/15_08_15---Apple_web.jpg)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.wikinfo.org/upload/f/f9/Appletree_bloom_l.jpg)

Apples have been acclimatized in Ecuador at very high altitudes, where they provide crops twice per year because of constant temperate conditions in a whole year.

(Picture is obtained from http://www.emmahyphenjane.com/photos/appletree/03-08-appletree04.jpg)

Apples must cross-pollinate to develop fruit.

(Picture is obtained from http://i.pbase.com/v3/62/235762/1/44857463.flowers_crop.jpg)

Pollination
Apples are self-incompatible; they must cross-pollinate to develop fruit.

(Picture is obtained from http://z.about.com/d/landscaping/1/0/4/O/sargent_crabapple_large.jpg)

During the flowering each season, apple growers usually provide pollinators to carry the pollen.

(Picture is obtained from http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3143/2378740027_2b626ced37.jpg)

(Picture is obtained from http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j280/gardenplansireland/apple-tree-fruit-pollen-pollination.jpg)

Honeybee hives are most commonly used. Orchard mason bees are also used as supplemental pollinators in commercial orchards. Bumble bee queens are sometimes present in orchards, but not usually in enough quantity to be significant pollinators.

(Picture is obtained from http://walkingraingallery.smugmug.com/photos/157326455-M.jpg)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.netstate.com/states/symb/flowers/images/apple_blossoms.jpg)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.emmahyphenjane.com/photos/appletree/03-08-appletree01.jpg)

(Picture is obtained from http://lh3.ggpht.com/_B64ZIU0TSY4/RtZPsLMg1rI/AAAAAAAAFcw/VKZQa5eKL9c/DSC06236.JPG)

Apple in religion, mythology and folktales
Apples appear in many religious traditions, often as a mystical or forbidden fruit. One of the problems identifying apples in religion, mythology and folktales is that the word "apple" was used as a generic term for all (foreign) fruit, other than berries but including nuts, as late as the 17th century.

(Picture is obtained from http://vegetablekingdom-capsid.blogspot.com/2008/08/17th-august-2008.html)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.shee-eire.com/Herbs,Trees&Fungi/Trees/Apple/Photos/appletree01.JPG)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.myurbanfarmer.com/images/apple1.jpg)

Mythology

The Apple was regarded as the fruit of immortality in Celtic Mythology. The Welsh 'Avalon' means 'Apple Island' and is considered synonymous with Tír na nÓg in Irish Mythology and Emain Abhlach 'The Island of Apples'. The soul of Cu Roi Mac Daire was imprisoned in an apple that resided in the stomach of a salmon which appeared once every seven years. An apple tree grew over the grave of the tragic lover Ailinn. Cúchulainn followed the trail of a magical apple to gain his freedom in one story. Connla the son of Conn is fed an apple by a fairy lover which sustains him but also makes him fall hopelessly in love with her. One of the tasks of the children of Tuirenn is to retrieve the magical apples of the Hesperides.

(Picture is obtained from http://www.shee-eire.com/Herbs,Trees&Fungi/Trees/Apple/Photos/appleblossom03.JPG)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.shee-eire.com/Herbs,Trees&Fungi/Trees/Apple/Photos/appleblossom04.JPG)

(Picture is obtained from http://farm1.static.flickr.com/192/516157607_b48870d247.jpg)

In Greek mythology, the Greek hero Heracles, as a part of his Twelve Labours, was required to travel to the Garden of the Hesperides and pick the golden apples off the Tree of Life growing at its center.

(Picture is obtained from http://www.rahul.net/clb/pix/apples.JPG)

The Greek goddess of discord, Eris, became disgruntled after she was excluded from the wedding of Peleus and Thetis. In retaliation, she tossed a golden apple inscribed Kalliste (Kalliste), 'For the most beautiful one', into the wedding party. Three goddesses claimed the apple: Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite. Paris of Troy was appointed to select the recipient. After being bribed by both Hera and Athena, Aphrodite tempted him with the most beautiful woman in the world, Helen of Sparta. He awarded the apple to Aphrodite, thus indirectly causing the Trojan War.

(Picture is obtained from http://www.lj.edu.jonkoping.se/meetinginfo/images/jkpgimg/images/More%20apples.jpg)

Atalanta, also of Greek mythology, raced all her suitors in an attempt to avoid marriage. She outran all but Hippomenes (also known as Melanion, a name possibly derived from melon the Greek word for both "apple" and fruit in general), who defeated her by cunning, not speed. Hippomenes knew that he could not win in a fair race, so he used three golden apples (gifts of Aphrodite, the goddess of love) to distract Atalanta. It took all three apples and all of his speed, but Hippomenes was finally successful, winning the race and Atalanta's hand.

(Picture is obtained from http://www.lj.edu.jonkoping.se/meetinginfo/images/jkpgimg/images/Apple%20trees.jpg)

(Picture is obtained from http://i82.photobucket.com/albums/j280/gardenplansireland/apple-tree-ireland-image-picture-ph.jpg

Solomon compares a loving relationship to a delightful treat of a surprise apple tree in the forest.
Like an apple tree among the trees of the forest…
I delight to sit in his shade,
and his fruit is sweet to my taste. (Song 2:3).)

Christianity

Serpent, the evil initiator, persuading Eve that the "Forbidden Fruit" holds the key to know-all (that is, to become like God. However he does not make known the risk clearly, causing all future generations to be considered as outcast from the kingdom of God.)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.conradaskland.com/blog/2007/09/photos-from-the-apple-tree-musical-comedy/)

Though the forbidden fruit in the Book of Genesis is not identified, popular Christian tradition has held that it was an apple that Eve coaxed Adam to share with her. This may have been the result of Renaissance painters adding elements of Greek mythology into biblical scenes. In this case the unnamed fruit of Eden became an apple under the influence of story of the golden apples in the Garden of Hesperides. As a result, in the story of Adam and Eve the apple became a symbol for knowledge, immortality, temptation, the fall of man into sin.

Eve coaxed Adam to share with her the forbidden fruit. Adam may appears skeptical but yield to SIN finally.
(Picture is obtained from http://www.conradaskland.com/blog/2007/09/photos-from-the-apple-tree-musical-comedy/apple-tree-2.jpg)

In Latin, the words for "apple" and for "evil" are similar in the singular (malus—apple, malum—evil) and identical in the plural (mala). This may also have influenced the apple becoming interpreted as the biblical "forbidden fruit".

(Picture is obtained from http://www.countryliving.com/cm/countryliving/images/Apple-Tree-ENTERT0705-de.jpg)

The larynx in the human throat has been called Adam's apple because of a notion that it was caused by the forbidden fruit sticking in the throat of Adam.

The apple as symbol of sexual seduction has been used to imply sexuality between men.

(Picture is obtained from http://www.biology-blog.com/images/blogs/apple-tree-50060.jpg)

The idea of an apple being the fruit of the Tree of the Knowledge of Good and Evil with English speakers may have been helped by the fact that apple could also be a generic word for fruit in Old English, the word being used in various commentaries on Genesis.

(Picture is obtained from http://www.sendingcircle.com/8-28-05/Apple%20Tree%20(1).JPG)

(Picture is obtained from http://lh4.ggpht.com/_pbe7GfPV-M4/RvaDqVmIU8I/AAAAAAAAAVE/u_GbMiW72gk/apple%20tree%202.JPG)

(Picture is obtained from http://lh3.ggpht.com/_pbe7GfPV-M4/RvaDoFmIU7I/AAAAAAAAAU8/8MeqoAriS_Q/apple+tree.JPG)

Asian apple tree

Health Benefits
Quoted from http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?dbid=15&tname=foodspice

According to the latest research, the old saying, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away," is fact and not just fairytale. The nutritional stars in apples - fiber, flavonoids, and fructose-translate into apples' ability to keep us healthy.

(Picture is obtained from http://z.about.com/d/landscaping/1/0/8/O/weeping_crabapple_large.jpg)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.free-nature-photos.org/fotodb/65_flower_of_apple_tree.jpg)

(Picture is obtained from http://theultrarev.googlepages.com/zCrab-Apple-Tree06.jpg)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.rei.org/JPN/Nagano/NaganoArea/Smalls/IMG_7613-apple-tree.JPG)

The following are the health benefits.

Cardio-Protective Fiber
Cardio-Protective Flavonoids
Juice Ranked among the Highest in Antioxidant Activity
Apples' Flavonoids Provide Much More than Antioxidant Protection
Fructose for Stable Blood Sugar Levels
Prevent Kidney Stones
Promote Optimal Health
Protection against breast cancer,
Natural Sun Protection
Increased lung function and increased weight loss.
Reduced risk of cancer, heart disease, asthma, and type 2 diabetes
Excellent source of antioxidants
Lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol and raising beneficial HDL cholesterol
Inhibit the growth of liver and colon cancer cells
Flavonoid May Help Prevent Menopausal Bone Loss
Protective against Postmenopausal Breast Cancer
Richest in fiber

(Picture is obtained from http://www.wallcoo.com/photograph/fruit_apple/images/fruit_apple_apple-tree_wallpaper_DU061.JPG)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.mooseyscountrygarden.com/driveway-garden/crabapple-elm.jpg)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.ferrarifarms.com/Apple%20Pictures/021_18e.jpg)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.ferrarifarms.com/Apple%20Pictures/018_15e.jpg)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.ferrarifarms.com/Apple%20Pictures/017_14e.jpg)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.ramblingshan.net/images/UKLife2006/SilviKentAppleTree.jpg)

Fruit Rating

Nutrient	Amount	DV (%)	Nutrient Density	World's Healthiest Foods Rating
Apples 1.00 each 138.00 grams 81.42 calories
dietary fiber	3.73 g	14.9	3.3	good
vitamin C	7.87 mg	13.1	2.9	good

World's Healthiest Foods Rating	Rule
excellent	DV>=75%	OR	Density>=7.6	AND	DV>=10%
very good	DV>=50%	OR	Density>=3.4	AND	DV>=5%
good	DV>=25%	OR	Density>=1.5	AND	DV>=2.5%

In-Depth Nutritional Profile for Apples

(Picture is obtained from http://www.lj.edu.jonkoping.se/meetinginfo/images/jkpgimg/images/More%20apples.jpg)

(Picture is obtained from http://lh4.ggpht.com/_pbe7GfPV-M4/RvaDtVmIU9I/AAAAAAAAAVM/U4Z1bhpGjvU/applea%20tree%203.JPG)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.lj.edu.jonkoping.se/meetinginfo/images/jkpgimg/images/Apple%20trees.jpg)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.sendingcircle.com/8-28-05/Apple%20Tree%20(2).JPG)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.gardenwiseonline.ca/files/articles/AppleTrees_1.jpg

Apple trees have "perfect" flowers containing both male (pollen-producing) and female (ovary-containing) structures. To prevent inbreeding, however, a flower will rarely develop fruit with its own pollen. By planting two different apple tree cultivars that bloom at the same time, the bees will cross-pollinate them and your apples will be on their way. "Triploid" apple cultivars, such as 'Winesap' and 'Jonagold,' have an odd set of chromosomes, so their pollen is not viable. You'll need three different apple tree cultivars if you plant a triploid.)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.sos.state.mn.us/student/artwork/Honeycrisp.gif)

Nutrition Facts
Taken from http://www.thefruitpages.com/chartapples.shtml
Apple Raw with Skin

Nutrient	Units	Value per 100 grams of edible portion	Sample Count	Std. Error
Proximates
Water	g	83.93	126	0.189
Energy	kcal	59	0
Energy	kj	247	0
Protein	g	0.19	119	0.003
Total lipid (fat)	g	0.36	35	0.039
Carbohydrate, by difference	g	15.25	0
Fiber, total dietary	g	2.7	0
Ash	g	0.26	116	0.005
Minerals
Calcium, Ca	mg	7	34	0.519
Iron, Fe	mg	0.18	119	0.019
Magnesium, Mg	mg	5	114	0.100
Phosphorus, P	mg	7	114	0.232
Potassium, K	mg	115	74	2.561
Sodium, Na	mg	0	47	0.064
Zinc, Zn	mg	0.04	15	0.007
Copper, Cu	mg	0.041	119	0.002
Manganese, Mn	mg	0.045	119	0.003
Selenium, Se	mcg	0.3	7	0.076
Vitamins
Vitamin C, total ascorbic acid	mg	5.7	25	0.766
Thiamin	mg	0.017	6	0.000
Riboflavin	mg	0.014	6	0.001
Niacin	mg	0.077	6	0.028
Pantothenic acid	mg	0.061	6	0.004
Vitamin B-6	mg	0.048	7	0.004
Folate, total	mcg	3	23	0.611
Folic acid	mcg	0	0
Folate, food	mcg	3	23	0.611
Folate, DFE	mcg_DFE	3	0
Vitamin B-12	mcg	0.00	0
Vitamin A, IU	IU	53	6	11.878
Vitamin A, RE	mcg_RE	5	6	1.188
Vitamin E	mg_ATE	0.320	0
Tocopherol, alpha	mg	0.32	0
Lipids
Fatty acids, total saturated	g	0.058	0
4:0	g	0.000	0
6:0	g	0.000	0
8:0	g	0.000	0
10:0	g	0.000	0
12:0	g	0.001	1
14:0	g	0.002	1
16:0	g	0.048	4
18:0	g	0.007	4
Fatty acids, total monounsaturated	g	0.015	0
16:1 undifferentiated	g	0.001	1
18:1 undifferentiated	g	0.014	4
20:1	g	0.000	0
22:1 undifferentiated	g	0.000	0
Fatty acids, total polyunsaturated	g	0.105	0
18:2 undifferentiated	g	0.087	4
18:3 undifferentiated	g	0.018	4
18:4	g	0.000	0
20:4 undifferentiated	g	0.000	0
20:5 n-3	g	0.000	0
22:5 n-3	g	0.000	0
22:6 n-3	g	0.000	0
Cholesterol	mg	0	0
Phytosterols	mg	12	0
Amino acids
Tryptophan	g	0.002	1
Threonine	g	0.007	2
Isoleucine	g	0.008	2
Leucine	g	0.012	2
Lysine	g	0.012	2
Methionine	g	0.002	2
Cystine	g	0.003	1
Phenylalanine	g	0.005	2
Tyrosine	g	0.004	2
Valine	g	0.009	2
Arginine	g	0.006	2
Histidine	g	0.003	2
Alanine	g	0.007	2
Aspartic acid	g	0.034	2
Glutamic acid	g	0.020	2
Glycine	g	0.008	2
Proline	g	0.007	2
Serine	g	0.008	2
Other
Caffeine	mg	0	0
Theobromine	mg	0	0

USDA Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, Release 14 (July 2001)

See for more in depth details, http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=nutrientprofile&dbid=94

(Picture is obtained from http://images-2.redbubble.net/img/art/size:large/view:main/1156624-2-duffs-crab-apple-tree.jpg)

(Picture is obtained from http://photos-from-ukraine.com/wallpapers/apple-tree-flowers.jpg)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.gardenwiseonline.ca/files/articles/AppleTrees_1.jpg

Apple trees have "perfect" flowers containing both male (pollen-producing) and female (ovary-containing) structures. To prevent inbreeding, a flower will rarely develop fruit with its own pollen. By planting two different apple tree cultivars that bloom at the same time, the bees will cross-pollinate them "Triploid" apple cultivars, such as 'Winesap' and 'Jonagold,' have an odd set of chromosomes, so their pollen is not viable. Three different apple tree cultivars are needed to plant a triploid.)

(Picture is obtained from http://www.koaa.com/archive/x1958146417/g1f400093eb1ec8e6e07fd88a2ceda533dfcc563cb2d816.jpg)