Chemicals found in apples could protect the brain from degenerative diseases such as Alzheimers, according to scientists.
A study by Cornell University has shown that the chemical quercetin has had a protective effect on the brains of rats.
The chemicals occur in apples to protect the fruit against bacteria, viruses and fungi and provide it with its anti-oxidant and anti-cancer benefits, the research said.
A spokesman for Cornell said: “The studies show that additional apple consumption not only may help reduce the risk of cancer, as previous studies have shown, but also that an apple a day may play an important role in reducing the risk of neurodegenerative disorders.”
