Apple A Day As Affective As Statins

Eating an apple-a-day is an effective as statins at preventing deaths from strokes and heart attacks, Oxford University scientists has discovered.

 The original 1866 proverb states: Eat an apple on going to bed, and you'll keep the doctor from earning his bread.

But a study from Oxford University has shown than an apple-a-day really will keep the doctor away and is as affective as statins at preventing strokes and heart attacks.

Researchers have concluded that around 8,500 deaths could be prevented every year if over-50s who are not already taking statins ate one apple each day.

Previous studies have shown that apples are high in soluble fibre which slows the build-up of cholesterol-rich plaque in the arteries.

Apples also contain antioxodiants and flavanoids which are beneficial to health and boost the immune system.

 Dr Adam Briggs of the BHF Health Promotion Research Group at Oxford University said: "The Victorians had it spot on when they came up with the clear and simple public health advice, 'An apple a day keeps the doctor away'.

"It just shows how effective little changes in diet can be.


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