Green Apple: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects and More!

Introduction:

The green apple is a hybrid fruit. It is developed by combining two different species of apple, namely, Malus slyvesterus and Malus domesticus. It contains bioactive compounds and flavonoids in a very good amount as compared to other varieties of apples. Green apples were first cultivated by an Australian woman named Maria Smith; hence they are also known as Granny Smith apples.¹ 

This fruit appears light green with tart, juicy and crisp flavours and hard skin with a long shelf-life as compared with other apple types. Green apples are considered healthy fruit and are used in weight management regimens due to the presence of low calories and abundant dietary potassium and fibre.¹ 

Nutritional Value of Green Apple:

Green apple has a very high amount of nutrients. 

Macronutrient Composition

• Energy: 50 kcal
• Carbohydrate: 13.6 g
• Protein: 0.44 g
• Fibre: 20.8 g
• Total fat: 0.19 g
• Sugar: 9.59 g

Vitamin and Mineral Content

• Calcium: 5 mg
• Iron: 0.15 mg
• Magnesium: 5 mg
• Phosphorus: 12 mg
• Copper: 0.031 mg
• Sodium: 1 mg
• Zinc: 0.04 mg
• Manganese: 0.044 mg
• Potassium: 120 mg
• Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): 0.025 mg
• Thiamin (Vitamin B1): 0.019 mg
• Niacin (Vitamin B3): 0.126 mg
• Vitamin B6: 0.037 mg
• Vitamin E: 0.18 mg
• Vitamin A: 5 µg
• Beta-Carotene: 59 µg
• Folate: 3 µg
• Vitamin K: 3.2 µg

Also Read: Plums: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects and More!

Properties of Green Apple:

Apples are considered traditional fruits and consumed due to their nutritional properties, which are contributed by their bioactive compounds and dietary fibres.³ The beneficial properties of green apple are given as follows: 

• May have anti-pyretic (reduces high body temperature during fever) potential  
• May have anti-microbial (acts against microorganisms) potential  
• May help with anti-inflammatory potential  
• May be a potential antioxidant³  

Did you know that apples are not only delicious but also packed with beneficial phenolic compounds? In fact, they rank second in total concentration of these compounds among fruits. What’s even more interesting is that apples have the highest portion of free phenolics compared to other fruits, making them a great choice for promoting health and well-being.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

Also Read: Custard Apple: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects and More!

Potential Uses of Green Apple:

Based on my experience, I have observed that consuming green apple juice might have positive effects on vision. The presence of Vitamin A in the juice has been known to support and improve eyesight. Incorporating green apple juice into your routine may help enhance your vision and contribute to overall eye health.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

For many years, the traditional systems of medicine have been using apples in the management of various conditions.³ Some of the potential uses of the green apple can be described as follows. 

1. Potential Uses of Green Apple for Cancer  

The green apple is rich in flavonoids that may help to reduce the risk of developing lung, pancreatic and colon cancer. Studies have also shown that green apple may have the potential to help with the growth of cancer cells in the breast, colon and skin.3 In clinical studies, it has shown that both males and females who consumed green apples in their diet had a reduced risk of developing lung cancer.⁴ However, cancer is a serious condition and would need a specialized doctor to diagnose and decide on treatment. It is important that you consult your healthcare provider before proceeding with any herbal remedy for health conditions.    

2. Potential Uses of Green Apple for Brain  

The extract of green apple juice may help to prevent damage to the brain. An animal study showed that the animals fed with a green apple diet had increased levels of neurotransmitters, which act as signalling molecules of the brain. Research has confirmed that eating green apples, which are a high-fibre food, may help fight against brain diseases. Green apples also help in preventing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.³ If you are suffering from any conditions or observe any symptoms related to brain function, make sure you talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits of any herbal remedies.  

In my experience, consuming green apple juice, which is a potential source of Vitamin K, might have a positive impact on wound healing and repair. Vitamin K plays a crucial role in blood clotting and coagulation, which are essential processes for proper wound healing.

Dr. Smita barode, B.A.M.S, M.S.

3. Potential Uses of Green Apple for Asthma  

Consumption of the green apple has been associated with managing many lung issues, including asthma. It has been shown that intake of green apples reduces the incidence of asthma. A recent study in Australia showed that green apple intake decreases the risk of asthma and lung hypersensitivity. Another study with middle-aged men also showed a beneficial effect of apple consumption on lung functioning.⁴ Asthma is a serious medical condition that requires you to follow doctor’s advise and adhere to your treatment plan, it is advised that you consult your doctor before using green apples for its benefits for asthma.  

4. Potential Uses of Green Apple for Diabetes  

Eating apples daily may help overcome the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Apples are full of soluble fibre and may play a key role in reducing blood sugar levels. A primary bioactive compound present in apple peels may also help to decrease the risk of diabetes. In clinical studies, it has been observed that consuming at least one green apple a day helps lower the risk of type 2 diabetes.^3,4 if you are suffering from diabetes, make sure you consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet.    

Check out  Accu-Chek Active Glucometer Kit  for accurate blood glucose reading

5. Potential Uses of Green Apple for Weight Management  

Doctors often recommend a high-fibre diet to improve and manage overall health. Apples are considered to be a high fibre food. Green apple has a high amount of dietary fibre, which is helpful for losing weight.³ In a human study, it has been shown that the consumption of green apples is associated with weight loss in middle-aged obese women. In a study people who consumed this fruit had shown weight loss with reduced levels of blood glucose.⁴ If you want to lose weight, you can consult your doctor or nutritionist as they can guide you better about diet changes.  Also, it is advised that you avoid making any major changes to your diet before consulting your doctor.  

6. Other Potential Uses of Green Apple  

• Green apple may act as an immunity booster and may also prevent the development of eye conditions.  
• Green apples might have a potential detoxifying ability; and may help to detoxify the liver, which in return clears out the toxins from the body.  
• Green apple contains bioactive compounds which may assist in relieving pain.  
• Green apple also has anti-inflammation properties.³  

Also Read: Jackfruit: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects and More!

How to Use Green Apple?

Green apple can be used in the following ways: 

• Green apples are eaten as fresh fruit. 
• Green apples can be consumed in the form of stewed fruits, juices, jellies, cider, concentrates and purée.  
• Green apples are also used to make sauce, tarts, slices, pies, cakes, candies and pastries. 
• The juices of green apples are fermented into alcoholic drinks such as wine, cider, and brandy. 
• The juice can be transformed into vinegar.³ 

You should always consult your Ayurvedic physician before consuming green apples for therapeutic use. They will be the best person to prescribe you the correct form and dosage as per your health condition. Also, Do not discontinue or replace an ongoing treatment of modern medicine with an ayurvedic/herbal preparation without consulting a qualified doctor.   

Side Effects of Green Apple:

There are some side effects of green apples related to teeth. The green apple is acidic and can cause demineralisation of the different portions of the tooth. The excess consumption of green apples may cause dental erosion (a chemical process that causes loss of mineralised tooth substance). Therefore, if you experience any dental problems, you must immediately contact your dentist. They will inform you about the various factors that cause erosion of the tooth.⁵ 

Natural herbs may have some allergic reactions and may react differently in different people always consult your doctor before including any fruit or vegetable in your diet for its benefits.  

Also Read: Kiwi: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects and More!

Precautions to Take With Green Apple:

Green apple is generally considered to be safe if it is taken in the recommended dosages. However, general precautions have to be followed while consuming a green apple. 

• There is not much information available against having green apples during pregnancy and breastfeeding. However, if any complications appear, consult your Ayurvedic physician immediately. 
• Since green apple is acidic, they might cause dental issues in children.⁵ Therefore, excessive consumption of green apples should be avoided. Contact your dentist if any dental problems occur. 

You must never self medicate even with natural fruits, vegetables and herbs. It is advisable to consult your Ayurvedic physician for best advice.  

Interactions With Other Drugs:

In clinical studies, it was shown that there is an interaction of the juice of apples with warfarin. Due to excess consumption of juice of green apple, there is increased blood thinning that may result in an emergency situation.⁶ Always disclose the ongoing treatments to your doctor, so that he can tailor a suitable prescription as per your ongoing treatment and conditions.  

Also Read: Wheatgrass: Uses, Benefits, Side effects & More!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

References:

Veena G, Challa SR, Palatheeya S, Prudhivi R, Kadari A. Granny Smith Apple Extract Lowers Inflammation and Improves Antioxidant Status in L-arginine-induced Exocrine Pancreatic Dysfunction in Rats. Turk J Pharm Sci. 2021 May 30;18(3):262-70. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8231327/pdf/TJPS-18-262.pdf 

Ahmad S, Mahmood T, Kumar R, Bagga P, Ahsan F, Shamim A, et al. A contrastive phytopharmacological analysis of gala and fuji apple. Res J Pharm Tech. 2020 Jun 15;13(3):1527-37. Available from: https://rjptonline.org/HTML_Papers/Research%20Journal%20of%20Pharmacy%20and%20Technology__PID__2020-13-3-83.html 

Boyer J, Liu RH. Apple phytochemicals and their health benefits. Nutr J. 2004 May 12;3:5. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC442131/pdf/1475-2891-3-5.pdf 

Al Anazi EZ. Dental erosion caused by Granny Smith apples: An evidence”based case report and 1”year follow”up. Clin Case Rep. 2018 June 12;6(1):1689-96. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6132154/pdf/CCR3-6-1689.pdf 

Choi M, Mintz M, Bates D. Interaction between Warfarin and Apple Juice. Canadian J Hosp Pharm. 2016 Feb 15;69(1):42-4. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4777580/pdf/cjhp-69-42.pdf 

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