It is the best fruit after 60 years: it contains lots of antioxidants and reduces the risks of having this syndrome.
Diet plays a crucial role in health and vitality, especially after age 60. While a balanced and varied diet is essential, certain foods can provide additional benefits. This is particularly the case with certain fruits.
We know that red fruits, such as strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries, are good for our health. They are rich in anthocyanins, pigments with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. By consuming them regularly, seniors strengthen their natural defenses and prevent age-related diseases. In addition, these fruits are an important source of vitamins (C and B) and minerals (potassium), while being low in calories and sugars. They also help improve cognitive health, reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.
But another, more common fruit stands out for its benefits for seniors: the apple. Economical and easy to consume, it has a nice ace up its sleeve: its composition and richness in flavonoids. A study conducted by researchers at Harvard University on 1,701 people over 12 years demonstrated that "foods rich in flavonoids, and more specifically flavonols, could play a crucial role in preventing the increased risks of frailty in older adults."
Frailty syndrome, which affects 10 to 15% of people over 65, leads to an increased risk of falls, fractures, disability, and hospitalizations. Researchers found that "for every 10 mg of flavonols consumed per day, the risk of frailty is reduced by 20%." This amount is equivalent to eating a medium-sized apple.
The study authors point out that " a higher intake of flavonols was associated with a lower likelihood of developing frailty. Specifically, a higher intake of quercetin was the flavonoid that had the strongest association with frailty prevention. Quercetin has been observed to be particularly effective in preventing age-related disorders, such as falls, fractures, or disability. " Quercetin is found primarily in apples and blackberries, but also in other foods such as onions, spinach, and peppers. As you can see, mixing apples and red fruits, including blackberries, is a good idea!
In addition to combating frailty syndrome, flavonoids also offer other health benefits for seniors. Their anti-inflammatory properties help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and certain cancers. While a balanced and varied diet is essential, incorporating specific foods like apples can provide additional benefits. This affordable fruit, easy to consume every day all year round, ultimately proves to be a valuable asset for seniors concerned about their well-being and health. After all, doesn't the old saying go: "An apple a day keeps the doctor away"?
L'Internaute
