Impact of Apple Consumption on Inflammation and Cardiovascular Health

Overview of the Study

Individuals who are overweight or obese often experience elevated levels of inflammation, which is a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease. In light of this, researchers aimed to investigate whether the consumption of apples could play a role in reducing inflammation. To achieve this, they measured various inflammatory markers and cardiovascular health indicators in the participants’ blood.

Study Design and Participants

The randomized controlled trial involved 46 participants classified as overweight or obese. Throughout the six-week study, these participants consumed three Gala apples daily. A control group was established, consisting of participants who refrained from eating apples during the same period. Blood samples were collected from all participants before and after the study to assess changes.

Findings on Inflammation Markers

The study revealed significant reductions in markers of inflammation in the blood of participants who consumed three apples daily. Specifically, levels of C-reactive protein and LPS-binding protein decreased compared to the control group. Additionally, two other inflammatory biomarkers, IL-6 and IL-17, also showed reductions in the apple-eating group. Furthermore, an increase in antioxidant capacity, indicative of enhanced antioxidant activity, was observed among those who included apples in their diet.

Cardiovascular Risk Markers Assessment

The researchers also evaluated potential changes in cardiovascular risk markers but found no significant differences between the groups.

Conclusion

According to the researchers, the results suggest that incorporating apples into one’s diet may effectively reduce inflammation associated with obesity, potentially mitigating cardiovascular disease risk without necessitating weight loss.

References

Danyelle M Liddle, Xinjie Lin, Liam C Cox, Emily M Ward, Rufaida Ansari, Amanda J Wright, Lindsay E Robinson, Daily apple consumption reduces plasma and peripheral blood mononuclear cell–secreted inflammatory biomarkers in adults with overweight and obesity: a 6-week randomized, controlled, parallel-arm trial, The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 2021;, nqab094. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/nqab094