Of tales and truths

4-MIN READ4-MIN

Published: 12:00am, 14 Feb 2012

We hear these proverbs all the time - and many of us live by them - but do they hold any truth, or are they merely empty adages? Here's the experts' take on 10 of the most common health axioms.

1. An apple a day keeps the doctor away: TRUE

There is definitely truth in this one, according to Charmain Tan, registered dietitian at Seventeen Nutrition Consultants (www.my17.com). 'Apples are high in fibre, vitamin C and antioxidants, so eating them every day keeps your digestive and immune systems healthy,' she says. A high-fibre diet is strongly believed to prevent colorectal cancer and other ailments. Apples also contain phenols, which Tan says reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol. A recent Cornell University study found that the flavonoid quercetin contained in apples protects brain cells from neuro-degenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. So, munch away.

2. You are what you eat: TRUE

About 90 per cent of the diseases that afflict humans are diet-related, says Tan, so if you eat junk, you can expect to feel like it, too. Obesity, gout, diabetes, heart, kidney and liver disease are all directly associated with what you consume. Alcohol and processed foods are also linked to depression. So, eat for your health and stick to simply prepared, low-fat, high-fibre 'whole' foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals, and avoid fatty, high-sodium and overly processed ones.

3. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a pauper: TRUE