Apple Consumers Have Lower Risk for Metabolic Syndrome

An apple a day… you know how it goes.

Here’s another reason why: Adults Who Eat Apples, Drink Apple Juice Have Lower Risk for Metabolic Syndrome.

In addition to having a 30% decreased likelihood for elevated diastolic blood pressure and a 36% decreased likelihood for elevated systolic blood pressure, apple product consumers also had a 21% reduced risk of increased waist circumference – all predictors of cardiovascular disease and an increased likelihood of metabolic syndrome. Additionally, adult apple product consumers had significantly reduced C-reactive protein levels, another measurable marker related to cardiovascular risk. Furthermore, apple product consumers’ diets were healthier than non-consumers — they had a greater intake of fruit and key nutrients, including dietary fiber, vitamins A and C, calcium and potassium. These consumers also ate less total fat, saturated fat, discretionary fat and added sugars.

What isn’t totally clear to me is whether people who eat apples and apple products tend to eat and lead a healthier lifestyle, which then accounts for the favorable health indices, or whether the health indices are a consequence of an apple-rich diet. Sounds like the former.