Health Benefits of Apple Juice Consumption: A Review of Interventional Trials on Humans

Abstract

Although numerous studies have reported the benefits of apple consumption on cardiometabolic health parameters and chronic disease prevention, few have focused on the effects of apple juice specifically. Juice consumption may be a convenient way to take advantage of the health effects of the bioactive components present in apples. The present review aims to summarize the current literature on health benefits of apple juice as reported in clinical trials in humans. Of the 67 studies retained, 20 interventional studies on humans were reviewed. Overall, cloudy apple juice consumption was found to be associated with several markers of cardiovascular health that may ultimately be relevant for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Most of the documentation was found regarding oxidative stress, as well as observations with other parameters such as markers of inflammation, lipid profile, and diabetes. This review suggests that, in 20 studies, apple juice consumed in moderation exerts positive effects on markers of cardiovascular disease risk (particularly on oxidative stress).

Triterpenoids of Three Apple Cultivars—Biosynthesis, Antioxidative and Anti-Inflammatory Properties, and Fate during Processing

“…The combination of the data levels of triterpenoids in various apple-based products and their anti-inflammatory properties can be used to draw another conclusion: the health benefits from the consumption of cloudy juices and purées will be superior to those from the consumption of clear juices. This supports earlier works highlighting the impact of fiber components in shaping the health-promoting activity of apple products [ 57 , 58 ].…”

Partial Removal of Sugar from Apple Juice by Nanofiltration and Discontinuous Diafiltration

“…Unfortunately, processing steps for producing ready-to-drink apple juices, including juice extraction and clarification, have a negative impact on the health-promoting compounds of apples: typically, the content in polyphenol and vitamin C is reduced following processing and juicing and fibers are almost completely removed in the clarification step [ 3 ]. In addition, clear apple juice has been associated with adverse effects, mainly related to its high fructose and low fiber content [ 4 ].…”

Is intake of fruit juice useful in exercise-induced hypoglycemia prevention in individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus?

“…Additionally, more research work should focus on the antioxidative effects of fruit juices. Vitamins or polyphenols can be potent mediators of antioxidative effects (12). Free radical production is increased through exercise which can contribute to muscle damage and impaired immunity (26).…”

“…To promote long-term health, individuals with T1DM should be instructed to choose nutrient-dense CHO foods (4,10). Fruit juice seems to be an advantageous food source because it can be easily consumed and has a relatively high nutritional density rich in vitamins, carotenoids and polyphenols (11,12).…”