Helps sleep deeply and stabilize blood sugar
Many people think that eating before bed can easily cause bloating or insomnia. However, according to Ms. Julie Scott, a nutritionist at the Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Health Center (USA), an apple has the opposite effect: "Cories contain polyphenols and fiber, which help the body relax, stabilize blood sugar levels and support sleep more naturally".
Studies show that people who eat more fruit, especially apples, often have deeper, better quality sleep. Although apples contain natural sugar, fiber helps slow down sugar absorption, preventing sudden increases in blood sugar, the cause of difficulty in sleeping for many people.
For people with diabetes or blood sugar problems, Ms. Scott recommends eating apples about one to two hours before bed to give the body time to digest and stabilize energy.
Support digestion, reduce inflammation and limit night snacking
Apples are rich in pectin, a type of soluble fiber that acts as a prebiotic, a source of nutrients for beneficial bacteria in the gut. According to Ms. Melissa Nieves, a clinical nutritionist at San Jorge Hospital (Puerto Rico): "A healthy gut microbiome helps improve digestion, immunity and even mood."
In addition, antioxidants in apples help reduce chronic inflammation, a factor associated with many cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. When eaten as a snack, apples also help you feel full longer thanks to their high fiber content, thereby reducing nighttime cravings.
However, apples are mildly acidic and contain sugar, which can affect tooth enamel if eaten without proper oral hygiene. Dentists recommend waiting about 30 minutes after eating apples to brush your teeth to better protect tooth enamel.
An average apple is equivalent to a cup of fruit, meeting most of the daily fruit needs. Maintaining this habit combined with adequate sleep, drinking plenty of water and eating a variety of foods will help the body stay healthy and more balanced.
