That's Fit

Each week, we'll be offering original recipes and unique ways to use those Super Foods that pack nutritional power. After all, you are what you eat -- make it count!

We all know the old wives' tale, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away," but is it really true?

Well, it is the season, and we are all eating them, so we may as well find out just how good for us apples are.

High in vitamin C and antioxidants and soluble and insoluble fiber, the apple just may keep the cardiologist away, since these nutrients are so heart-protective. Apples even provide some sun protection when you eat them, so avoid a sunburn with an apple snack before you head outdoors and the dermatologist may be a doctor of the past.

Some tips to make sure you are getting the most from the apples you are eating:

• Leave the skin on. Although apples are high in fiber even without the skin, the skin provides valuable flavanoids which lower your risk of heart disease.
• Protect yourself from pesticides and buy organic. Apples are always on the Top Foods to Buy Organic list.
• Buy cloudy, not clear, apple juice. In studies, it was found to be a front-runner in antioxidant content.

The nice thing about an apple is that it is the quintessential portable fruit, so eating an apple a day is not a stretch. But if you get bored and want to use other ingredients to highlight the yummy apple, try some of these quick ideas:

• Chop into salads with slivered almonds.
• Roast wedges of apples with winter squash, sweet potato or cabbage.
• Add to oatmeal, pancakes and muffins.
• Try this crock pot Breakfast Cobbler recipe.
• Use chunks of apple as part of a "fresh" trail mix, with nuts of your choice, raisins and seeds.

What is your favorite way to eat apples?