All types of apples are standout fruits for weight control, but green apples (Granny Smith varieties) may turn out to be the cream of the crop. Scientists have known that apples in general are home to an abundance of non-digestible plant fibers that “feed” the good bacteria in our guts. This is notable because having an abundance of “good” bacteria in our GI tracts is fundamental to metabolic health and weight control. Meaning, there is now compelling evidence that an unhealthy microbiome (a GI tract dominated by “bad” bacteria) can translate to weight gain and ultimately obesity. In contrast, having an abundance of “good” bacteria in the gut is protective against metabolic dysfunction and obesity.
Knowing that apples are uniquely high in fibers favored by beneficial bacteria, scientist conducted a series of lab experiments in obese mice testing which varieties of apples were most effective in transforming their gut bacteria from the “bad” obesity-associated types to the “good” lean types. And it turns out that the tart and tangy Granny Smith apples came out on top. For further inducement to go green with your apples, Granny Smith varieties also shine for their stellar antioxidant and anti-inflammatory power. (Food Chemistry, 2014; 161:208)
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