So Many Apples!

It’s Fall once again, and a good time to try some new and delicious apple varieties. While many are staunch fans of one specific apple over all others, for me it’s the Honeycrisp, the past few years has seen the rise of some interesting, and delicious, options.

Everyone should eat apples because they are tasty and nutritious, but some recent research suggests apples should be a regular fruit choice for people with diabetes. A new study reviewed data from over 1500 people with T1 and T2 diabetes and found that those following a low glycemic index (GI) diet had lower blood sugar levels. Glycemic index measure how quickly a food is broken down into sugar and absorbed by the body, affecting the rise in blood sugar levels. Apples are a low GI food, with their combination of high fiber, water content and sugar. Anytime you choose an apple instead of cookies or other dessert, you are making a great switch. Choose to eat apples with the skin on to get the full fiber potential.

So what kinds to try??? If you are looking for the most beautiful apple, find a Rose variety. The Pacific and Lucy Rose varieties are truly rosy on the inside. Nice and crunchy, both tart and sweet, slice them up to enjoy their beauty! If you know you like a Honeycrisp, the University of Minnesota, who bread the Honeycrisp, has a new breed out called the Triumph. And there are always the standbys- Fuji, Gala, Red Delicious, Granny Smith, too many to name, but all having a place whether alone, in baking, salads or savory dishes.

Here are some simple ways to enjoy an apple a day-

Dice up an apple into your morning oatmeal or yogurt.

Slice and enjoy dipped in nut butter or with a slice of cheese.

Cut into matchsticks and add to a salad, try Romaine lettuce, crumbled cheese, walnuts or slivered almonds, and some vinaigrette.

Chop and roast with Brussels Sprouts. A drizzle of olive oil and it’ll taste delicious.