Adults who regularly include apples and apple juice in their diet significantly reduce the risk of developing health problems associated with metabolic syndrome, research suggests.
A study drawing on the findings of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey found that adults who consumed apple products were 27 per cent less likely to be diagnosed with metabolic syndrome compared to non-consumers.
Analyst Dr Victor Fulgoni commented: "We found that adults who eat apples and apple products have smaller waistlines that indicate less abdominal fat, lower blood pressure and a reduced risk for developing what is known as the metabolic syndrome."
The study also indicated that adults who ate apple products have at 30 per cent less risk of elevated diastolic blood pressure and significantly reduced C-reactive protein levels, which is a measurable marker of cardiovascular risk.
According to the US Apple Association, consumer demand for fresh apples across America continued in January following a three per cent sales increase in December compared to the previous year.
