You might be thinking there aren’t too many ways to eat an apple — how could I be doing it wrong? While you likely enjoy crunching on the juicy and refreshing fruit, there’s a good chance you eat around the core, then toss it when you’re done, right? According to a recent study, eating an apple this way could mean you’re missing out on something highly beneficial: the seeds.
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Researchers analyzed bacterial content on store-bought and organic apples. They tested every part of the apple — the stem, the peel, the flesh and the seeds. The study showed that both types of apples contained around the same amounts of bacteria, but the majority were found in the seeds. According to the findings, eating around the core then tossing it away will help prevent the amount of bacteria you come in contact with. However, that might not be such a good thing.
When researchers tested organic apples, they found a more diverse and evenly-spread bacterial community compared to store-bought apples. But some of the bacteria had health-promoting potential. Specifically, researchers found a type of bacteria called Lactobacillus — a beneficial probiotic bacteria often found in fermented foods that can help with certain health conditions, such as digestive disorders. The study’s results suggest that eating whole organic apples — including the seeds — may be highly beneficial to your gut microbiome.
Now, this doesn’t mean you should swallow hundreds of apple seeds — that can be dangerous. Despite the beneficial bacteria, they also contain a chemical compound called amygdalin. When the seeds are crushed and chewed while consumed, that compound can produce cyanide, which is poisonous.
But the next time you find yourself crunching on an apple, whether red or green, sour or sweet, think twice before ditching the seeds along with the core. Swallowing a few seeds along with your tasty snack — the average apple contains five — might help give your gut a natural healthy boost!