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Scientists Demonstrate Brain Health Properties of Specific Apple Constituents

September 14, 2005

New studies by the Tree Fruit BioProducts research program at Nova Scotia Agricultural College (NSAC) in collaboration with Dr. George Robertson of Dalhousie University have demonstrated that a specific group of phenolic compounds present in apple skin may contribute to the protection of brain cells from oxidative stress.

Researchers presented their preliminary results at the First International Symposium on Health Effects of Fruits and Vegetables, last month in Quebec City. According to the study, among nine major phenolic compounds present in apples - a subfamily of phenolics called flavonols - may protect the brain cells from injurious conditions.

Dr. Rupasinghe, chair of the recently established Tree Fruit BioProducts research program, is looking at apple and processing by-products as possible bio-resources to develop value-added food ingredients and natural health products. In particular, he is investigating a group of phytochemicals called flavonoids, which are believed to provide a wide array of health benefits.

Dr. Rupasinghe points out that although the apple is not the fruit with the highest antioxidant capacity, the apple is unique in its phytochemicals. For example, an apple could be categorized as one of the dietary sources richest in the above-mentioned flavonols. Among the other fruits and vegetables rich in flavonols are onions, cranberries, and spinach.

In general, antioxidants such as dietary phenolics neutralize the negative by-products of our metabolism called free radicals, which can damage DNA leading to cancer. They also counteract environmental carcinogens, protect against cardiovascular diseases and potentially prevent the early occurrence of age-related diseases such as Alzheimer's.

Among all known fruits and vegetables, the apple is one of the top dietary sources for flavonoids in the North American diet. Apple is one of nature's more perfect foods, which has the potential to become a healthy snack among health conscious consumers of the next decade, Dr. Rupasinghe commented.

Among many nutritional sources, apples provide plenty of dietary fiber, primarily pectin and cellulose. Pectin gives dieters a sense of fullness to make them feel they've eaten heartily. It helps reduce blood cholesterol and aids in digestion of fat. Apples also provide plenty of potassium, which helps regulate body fluids and neuromuscular activity.