
Through studies with mice, researchers from the University of Iowa found that a compound in apple skin called ursolic acid was able to help stop muscle wasting in mice who were deprived of food, and helped mice who had food actually build more muscle tissue. This suggests that ursolic acid is able to counteract muscle atrophy (death).
Even more amazing was that the mice who received ursolic acid had lower blood levels of glucose, cholesterol and triglycerides (fats) and they were also leaner over all.
It is not clear yet whether or not these findings will translate to humans, but clinical trials are planned for the future. Also, the ursolic acid that was given to the mice in this study was extracted, meaning they likely got a higher, concentrated dose that is not likely to be found in a single apple. Regardless, since there are so many other reasons to eat an apple a day, it almost doesn't matter and may just be a happy bonus for current daily apple consumers. For those who don't enjoy an apple a day, starting to do so may only bring them the benefits of improved health. So I say, why not give it a try?
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