Calories In Apple – Do They Keep The Pounds Away?
26 mins read

Calories In Apple – Do They Keep The Pounds Away?

Introduction

Welcome to our latest blog post, “Calories In Apple – Do They Keep The Pounds Away?”. In this post, we’re going to dive into the world of apples, a fruit that’s not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. But have you ever wondered about the caloric content of this crunchy delight? And more importantly, can it really help in keeping those extra pounds at bay?

Join us as we explore the nutritional profile of apples, debunk some common myths, and provide you with all the information you need to make informed dietary choices. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a health-conscious individual, or someone who simply loves apples, this blog post is for you. So let’s get started on this journey of discovery and see if an apple a day can indeed keep the pounds away!

How many calories are in apple?

Calories in Apple

The number of calories in an apple can vary depending on the size of the apple, the type of apple, and whether the apple is peeled or not. For example, a small apple may contain around 65 calories, while a large apple may contain around 120 calories. Peeled apples also contain slightly more calories than unpeeled apples, as the skin contains some fiber.

However, since the calories in apple are low, an apple is still a relatively low-calorie snack or meal option –  no matter how large it is. Apples are also a good source of fiber and vitamins, making them a healthy choice for people of all ages.

Can apples help you lose weight?

Apples are not only delicious, but they can also help you lose weight. Here are six reasons why apples are your best friends when it comes to shedding those extra pounds:

  • Low in calories. A medium-sized apple has only about 95 calories, making it a good snack or light meal when you’re trying to lose weight. You can enjoy the crunchy and juicy fruit without worrying about adding too many calories to your diet.
  • High in fiber. Fiber helps you feel full and satisfied after eating, which can help you eat less overall. A medium-sized apple has about 5 grams of fiber, which is about 16% of the recommended daily intake for women and 11% for men. Fiber also supports your digestive health and prevents constipation.
  • Naturally sweet. The natural sweetness of apples can help satisfy your cravings for sweets without adding a lot of calories or sugar to your diet. Apples contain fructose, a type of sugar that is metabolized slowly and does not cause spikes in blood sugar levels. Apples also have a low glycemic index, which means they do not raise your blood sugar levels as much as other foods with the same amount of carbohydrates. In other words, all the calories in apple are good!
  • Contain polyphenols. Polyphenols are plant compounds that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies have shown that polyphenols may help to promote weight loss and reduce the risk of obesity. Apples are rich in polyphenols, especially in their skin. Polyphenols may also help to regulate your metabolism and prevent fat accumulation.
  • Low calorie density. Calorie density is a measure of how many calories are in a given volume of food. Foods with low calorie density are typically high in water and fiber, and they can help you feel full and satisfied while eating fewer calories. Apples have a low calorie density of about 0.5 calories per gram. This means that you can eat a large amount of apples and still consume fewer calories than if you ate a smaller amount of other foods with higher calorie density.
  • May help reduce appetite and cravings. Some studies have shown that not only are the calories in apple low, eating apples may help reduce appetite and cravings for unhealthy foods. For example, one study found that people who ate an apple before lunch ate about 200 fewer calories at lunch than those who didn’t eat an apple. Another study found that eating an apple before dinner reduced the intake of calories from the main course by 15%.

Other health benefits of apples

Not only are the calories in apples very low, but apples have other health benefits. Here is a list of other health benefits of apples.

  • Reduce the risk of heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide, but you can lower your chances of getting it by eating more apples. Apples contain soluble fiber, which can help lower your cholesterol levels. High cholesterol is one of the main causes of heart disease. Apples also contain polyphenols, which are natural compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These polyphenols can help protect your blood vessels and prevent plaque buildup, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes.
  • Apples can help you reduce the risk of stroke. Stroke is a serious condition that occurs when the blood supply to your brain is interrupted. It can cause permanent damage or death. But you can prevent stroke by eating more apples. Studies have shown that people who eat apples regularly are less likely to have a stroke. This may be due to the fact that apples can help lower your blood pressure and cholesterol levels, both of which are risk factors for stroke. So the calories in apple go beyond just weight loss
  • Reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how your body uses sugar. It can cause serious complications such as kidney failure, nerve damage, and blindness. But you can avoid type 2 diabetes by eating more apples. Apples are a good source of fiber, which can help regulate your blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels can lead to insulin resistance, which is the main cause of type 2 diabetes. Apples also contain polyphenols, which may help improve your insulin sensitivity. Insulin is a hormone that helps your cells absorb sugar from your blood.
  • The calories in apples can help you promote gut health. Gut health is the state of your digestive system and the bacteria that live in it. Your gut bacteria play a vital role in your overall health and well-being. They help you digest food, produce vitamins, fight infections, and regulate your mood. But you can improve your gut health by eating more apples. Apples contain prebiotics, which are types of fiber that feed the good bacteria in your gut. A healthy gut microbiome is important for preventing diseases such as obesity, irritable bowel syndrome, and inflammatory bowel disease.
  • Boost brain health. Brain health is the ability of your brain to function properly and efficiently. Your brain is responsible for everything you think, feel, and do. But you can enhance your brain health by eating more apples. Studies have shown that eating apples may help improve your cognitive function and protect against age-related decline. This may be due to the fact that apples contain antioxidants that may help protect your brain cells from oxidative stress and inflammation, which are linked to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
  • May protect against cancer. Cancer is a group of diseases that involve abnormal cell growth and spread throughout your body. It can affect any organ or tissue in your body and cause serious harm or death. But you can fight cancer by eating more apples. Apples contain antioxidants that may help protect against cancer. Some studies have shown that people who eat apples regularly have a lower risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as lung cancer, colon cancer, and breast cancer. This may be due to the fact that apples can help prevent DNA damage, inhibit tumor growth, and induce cell death in cancer cells.

As you can see, apples have many other health benefits not just weight loss. So, instead os focusing only on the calories in apples, you can also focus on the amazing health benefits you will get by including this superfood into you diet.

Can I eat apples on a low-carb diet?

Calories In Apple vs Low Carb Diet

Even though the calories in apple are low, you may or may not be able to include them in your low-carb diet.

A medium apple has 25.1 grams of total carbs, 4.37 grams of fiber, and 18.9 grams of sugar1. The net carbs, which are the carbs that affect your blood sugar levels, are calculated by subtracting the fiber from the total carbs. A medium apple has 20.73 grams of net carbs.

Most low-carb diets limit your daily net carb intake to 50 grams or less, while some very strict ones may go as low as 20 grams per day. This means that eating one apple could use up most or all of your carb allowance for the day.

However, this does not mean that apples are bad for you or that you should avoid them completely. Apples are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and various antioxidants that have many health benefits3. They also contain pectin, a type of soluble fiber that feeds the beneficial bacteria in your gut and may help with weight loss and blood sugar control3.

The glycemic index (GI) of apples is low, ranging from 29 to 44 depending on the variety. The GI is a measure of how quickly a food raises your blood sugar levels after eating. Foods with a low GI are less likely to cause spikes and crashes in your blood sugar levels, which can affect your appetite and energy levels.

Therefore, if you want to enjoy apples on a low-carb diet, you may want to choose smaller apples or eat only half of a large one. You may also want to pair them with some protein or fat, such as cheese, nuts, or peanut butter, to slow down the digestion and absorption of the carbs and sugar. This can help you feel fuller for longer and prevent overeating.

Alternatively, you can try other low-carb fruits that have fewer carbs and sugar than apples, such as berries, melons, peaches, or plums. These fruits can also provide you with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber while satisfying your sweet tooth.

How to choose the best apples for weight loss.

Apples are a great fruit for weight loss, but not all apples are created equal. Some apples have more benefits than others when it comes to shedding pounds. Here are some tips on how to choose the best apples for weight loss, and some examples of apple varieties that fit the bill.

Choose apples that are high in fibre. Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that your body cannot digest, so it passes through your system without adding calories. Fiber also helps you feel full and satisfied, which can prevent you from overeating. Apples are rich in both soluble and insoluble fiber, which have different benefits for your health. The skin of the apple contains the most fiber, so make sure to eat it along with the flesh.

Choose apples that are low in calories. Calories are units of energy that your body uses for various functions. If you consume more calories than you burn, you will gain weight. If you consume fewer calories than you burn, you will lose weight. Apples are generally low in calories, but some varieties are lower than others. For example, a medium Granny Smith apple has only 80 calories, while a medium Honeycrisp apple has 95 calories. Choosing lower-calorie apples can help you reduce your overall calorie intake and lose weight.

Choose apples that are high in antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that protect your cells from free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause damage and inflammation.

Here are some specific apple varieties that are good for weight loss:

  • Granny Smith: This is one of the best apples for weight loss because it is high in fiber, low in calories, and high in antioxidants. It has a tart and crunchy taste that can satisfy your cravings for something sour or crunchy.
  • Pink Lady: This is another good apple for weight loss because it is high in fiber, low in calories, and high in antioxidants. It has a sweet and tart taste that can balance your taste buds.
  • Fuji: This is a good apple for weight loss because it is high in fiber and antioxidants. It has a sweet and juicy taste that can quench your thirst and fill you up.
  • Gala: This is a good apple for weight loss because it is high in fiber and antioxidants. It has a sweet and mild taste that can please anyone.
  • Braeburn: This is a good all-around apple for weight loss because it is high in fiber and antioxidants. It has a sweet and tart taste that can suit any mood.

When you go to the store or the market to buy apples, look for ones that are firm and have smooth skin. Avoid ones that are bruised or have blemishes, as they may be rotten or infected. You can store apples in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or in a cool and dry place for up to a week.

How to incorporate apples into your diet

The calories in apples are low so you can incorporate them into your diet and still maintain a healthy weight. Here are six ways to incorporate apples into your diet and enjoy their health benefits.

  • Eat them fresh. This is the simplest and most straightforward way to enjoy apples. Simply wash an apple, take a bite, and enjoy! You can also slice apples and dip them in peanut butter, almond butter, or yogurt for a quick and healthy snack. This way, you can get some protein and healthy fats along with the calories from apples.
  • Add them to smoothies. Apples are a great way to add sweetness, flavor, and nutrients to your smoothies. Simply add a chopped apple to your favorite smoothie recipe and blend until smooth. You can also add some spinach, kale, or other greens to boost the fiber and vitamin content of your smoothie.
  • Bake them. Baked apples are a delicious and healthy dessert. To bake apples, simply core them and place them in a baking dish. Add a spoonful of butter or brown sugar to the center of each apple and bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender. You can also sprinkle some cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves on top for extra flavor and aroma.
  • Add them to salads. Apples can add a touch of sweetness and crunch to your salads without piling on the calories. Try adding sliced apples to your favorite salad recipe or simply chop up an apple and toss it in with your greens. You can also add some cheese, nuts, or dried fruits to make your salad more satisfying and balanced.
  • Use them in cooking and baking. Apples can be used in a variety of cooking and baking recipes. Try adding chopped apples to muffins, pancakes, or oatmeal. You can also use applesauce in place of butter or oil in baking recipes. Applesauce can reduce the fat and calorie content of your baked goods without compromising the taste and texture.
  • Drink apple juice or cider. Apple juice and cider are delicious and refreshing drinks. However, it is important to note that they are also high in sugar, so it is best to consume them in moderation. A cup of apple juice has about 114 calories, while a cup of apple cider has about 117 calories. You can also dilute them with water or sparkling water to reduce the sugar and calorie intake.

How many apples can I eat in a day?

The recommended daily intake of fruits and vegetables is around 5 servings per day. One medium-sized apple counts as one serving of fruit. For adults, eating one to two apples per day is considered a healthy amount.

Remember the calories in apple are low but eating too many of them may actually lead to weight gain. So be sure to eat in moderation.

Healthy Apple-based meal plans

Calories In Apple - Apple Pie

Here are 6 healthy apple-based meal plans for the week:

Monday

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with sliced apples and cinnamon
  • Lunch: Salad with greens, grilled chicken or fish, avocado, and apples
  • Dinner: Salmon fillet with roasted vegetables and apples

Tuesday

  • Breakfast: Apple and yogurt smoothie
  • Lunch: Lentil soup with a side salad
  • Dinner: Chicken stir-fry with apples, carrots, and onions

Wednesday

  • Breakfast: Whole-wheat toast with apple butter and peanut butter
  • Lunch: Turkey sandwich on whole-wheat bread with apples and lettuce
  • Dinner: Apple and sausage stuffing

Thursday

  • Breakfast: Apple and banana pancakes
  • Lunch: Salad with greens, quinoa, chickpeas, and apples
  • Dinner: Pork chops with apple sauce

Friday

  • Breakfast: Apple and cinnamon muffin
  • Lunch: Tuna salad sandwich on whole-wheat bread with apples and celery
  • Dinner: Apple crisp

Saturday

  • Breakfast: Apple and oatmeal bake
  • Lunch: Leftover apple crisp
  • Dinner: Apple and pear chutney with grilled chicken or fish

Sunday

  • Breakfast: Apple and egg scramble
  • Lunch: Leftover apple and sausage stuffing
  • Dinner: Roasted chicken with apple cider sauce

These meal plans provide a variety of healthy and delicious ways to incorporate apples into your diet. They calories in apple are low and flexible enough to accommodate different dietary needs and preferences.

Here are some additional tips for making your apple-based meals even healthier:

  • Use whole-wheat bread and pasta instead of refined grains.
  • Choose lean protein sources, such as grilled chicken or fish.
  • Add plenty of fruits and vegetables to your meals.
  • Use healthy fats, such as olive oil or avocado oil.
  • Limit processed foods and sugary drinks.

Myths and misconceptions about calories in apples and weight loss

Myth 1: Apples are a magic bullet for weight loss.

Some people think that eating apples can make them lose weight without any effort. They believe that apples have some secret ingredients that can melt away fat and suppress appetite.

Truth: While apples can be a healthy part of a weight loss diet, they are not a magic bullet.

The calories in apple are low and they are high in fiber, which can help you feel full and eat less. They also contain antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals that can support your health. However, eating apples alone will not lead to significant weight loss. You still need to follow a balanced diet and exercise regularly to lose weight and keep it off. Apples are not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle.

Myth 2: Eating apples before bed can help you lose weight.

Some people believe that eating apples before bed can help them burn more calories while they sleep. They think that apples can boost their metabolism and prevent fat storage.

Truth: There is no evidence to support the claim that eating apples before bed can help you lose weight. Just because the calories in apple are low does not mean you have to eat them before bed.

Eating any food too close to bedtime can disrupt your sleep and lead to weight gain. Your body needs time to digest food before you go to sleep. Eating late at night can also cause acid reflux, heartburn, and indigestion, which can affect your sleep quality. Poor sleep can lower your metabolism and increase your hunger hormones, making you more likely to overeat the next day.

Myth 3: Eating apples can help you burn calories.

Some people claim that eating apples can help you burn more calories than you consume. They say that apples have negative calories, meaning that they use more energy to digest than they provide.

Truth: While calories in apples are low, eating apples will not boost your metabolism or help you burn more calories. There is no such thing as negative calories. All foods provide some energy to your body, even if they are low in calories. Apples have about 50-80 calories per 100 grams, depending on the variety and size. That means that one medium apple has about 95 calories. To burn those calories, you would need to walk for about 25 minutes.

Myth 4: Eating apples can help you detox your body.

Some people think that eating apples can help them cleanse their body of toxins and waste. They believe that apples have some special enzymes or fibers that can flush out harmful substances from their system.

Truth: Your body has its own natural detoxification system.

There is no evidence that eating apples can help you detox your body any faster. Your liver, kidneys, lungs, skin, and intestines are constantly working to remove toxins and waste from your body. Eating apples or any other fruit will not enhance this process. In fact, eating too many apples can cause digestive problems such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, or constipation.

Myth 5: Eating apples can help you lose belly fat.

Some people believe that eating apples can help them target belly fat specifically. They think that apples have some compounds that can reduce inflammation and fat accumulation in the abdominal area.

Truth: There is no specific food that can help you lose belly fat.

The calories in apple are low but they do not target any specific part of the body. The only way to lose belly fat is to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Belly fat is linked to many health risks such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some cancers. To reduce belly fat, you need to lower your overall body fat percentage by creating a calorie deficit. This means that you need to burn more calories than you consume. Eating apples or any other food will not change this equation.

How do the calories in apples compare with other fruits.

Apples are one of the most popular fruits in the world, and the calories in apples are lower than other fruits. Apples have 52 calories per 100g, while bananas have 89 calories per 100g1. Other fruits that have more calories than apples include mangoes (60 calories per 100g), grapes (67 calories per 100g), and cherries (63 calories per 100g).

Some fruits that have fewer calories than apples are watermelon (30 calories per 100g), strawberries (32 calories per 100g), and grapefruit (33 calories per 100g). However, apples have more fiber than most of these fruits, which can help you feel full and satisfied. A large apple (223 grams) has 5.4 grams of fiber, while a large banana (136 grams) has only 3.1 grams of fiber.

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