You’ve probably heard the saying “an apple a day keeps the doctor away,” but do you really know the health benefits of apples, and with so many varieties available, do you know which types would satisfy your taste buds? If not, then it’s good you’re reading this.

Apples contain no fat or sodium and only range from 60 to 100 calories, based on its size. Apples have many benefits, they:

• Provide nutrients – contain vitamin C, potassium and fiber

• Control body weight – apples are high in fiber which keeps you full

• Good for your heart – apples help lower cholesterol levels

• Keep your gut healthy – the fiber in apples act as a prebiotic and feeds your gut good bacteria

• Help prevent cancer – fiber content may contribute to cancer-fighting properties.

• Promote oral health – biting and chewing an apple helps remove plaque and prevent tooth decay

• Promote eye health – consuming apples can help reduce the development of cataracts

Over 7,000 varieties of apples are grown worldwide, with 2,500 in the United States. Americans eat approximately 19 pounds of fresh apples annually, with the most popular apple being Red Delicious. Some common apple types and their characteristics include:

Crispin
• Sweet with a slight tartness
• Light green to yellowish-white
• Best for eating fresh

Gala
• Crisp, juicy and very sweet
• Vary in color, from cream to red and yellow striped
• Best for eating, salad and making applesauce

Jonagold
• Cross between Jonathan and Golden Delicious apples
• Light red stripes over yellow or deep red
• Best for eating, baking and in sauces

Northern Spry
• Juicy, crisp and mildly sweet
• Green with red stripes
• Stores well
• Best for eating, baking and in sauces

Apples are available in grocery stores year-round, but did you know they are best eaten from August through December, when they’re in season? In-season apples are more juicy, crisp and flavorful. Out-of-season apples tend to be mealy, which some people still enjoy.

Apples are healthy for you so incorporate them into your daily diet. Eat them as a snack, make applesauce, or put them in your oatmeal in the morning. No matter how you decide to eat them, your body will benefit.

View more of our Eating Well, Aging Well series.