A U.S. oncologist's explanation that the common apple may help lower cancer risk is drawing attention. The antioxidants and dietary fiber abundant in apples can have a positive effect on health, the doctor said.
U.S. outlet Parade recently revisited an interview with Dr. Ting Ting Tan, a medical oncologist at City of Hope in California, to highlight the health benefits of apples.
"There is a saying that an apple a day keeps the doctor away," Tan said. "Apples are rich in antioxidants and dietary fiber, which reduce cancer risk."
Polyphenols in Apple Peel Draw Attention for Possible Role in Curbing Cancer Cell Growth
Apples contain a range of plant-based antioxidants, including polyphenols. These compounds are known to be involved in regulating oxidative stress linked to cell damage.
Some research has focused on compounds in apple peel. In a study published in 2021 in the international journal Journal of Food Science, polyphenols extracted from the peel of red-fleshed apples inhibited the proliferation of breast cancer cells cultured in the laboratory and induced cell death.
The peel extract contained higher levels of polyphenols and flavonoids than the flesh extract, and a stronger effect in curbing cancer cell growth was also observed.
People Who Eat More Fruit and Vegetables Show 19% Lower Overall Cancer Risk
Large-scale research has also linked fruit and vegetable intake to cancer risk. According to a study published in August in the International Journal of Cancer, an analysis of 50,987 Chinese adults found that the group with the highest fruit and vegetable intake had an overall cancer risk about 19% lower than the group with the lowest intake.
The association with reduced risk was particularly evident for lung and stomach cancer. By contrast, no clear association was found for colorectal cancer.
The researchers suggested that fruit and vegetable intake may be associated with a lower cancer risk. The study did not examine apples alone, however, and because it was an observational study, it cannot establish that any single food prevents cancer.
Pairing Apples With Nuts Adds Staying Power, and a Balanced Diet Matters
When eating an apple as a snack, pairing it with nuts or unsweetened Greek yogurt is another good option. Taking in fat and protein along with the fruit's dietary fiber can increase the feeling of fullness.
Tan said she also makes a point of eating fresh fruit, nuts and whole grains, and tries to cut back on ultra-processed foods.
