An apple a day

I eat one everyday, because I like apples and I have the vague notion that they're good for me. "An apple a day keeps ... " and all that. Well, there is some truth to it.

Not only can apples keep the doctor away by helping your immune system with healthy food but studies at the University of Ulster have found that apple phenols protect the DNA in colon cancer cells: "Our results indicate that a crude extract of apple phenolics can protect against DNA damage." Researchers at Cornell University have found that up to six apples a day can prevent breast cancer in primates and believe this can be extrapolated to humans. "Consumption of apples may be an effective strategy for cancer protection," say the researchers.

A quick search found evidence of this: scientists are reporting isolation of chemical compounds from apple peel that may be involved in the apple's beneficial health effects.

And this. And this.