Alia Bhatt is known for putting her life on social media and fans never miss her glimpse. The actress recently shared her love for apple crumble in a YouTube video, sparking curiosity about this classic dessert. The actress tried her hands by making the dessert and she even burnt her hands. But is apple crumble just a tasty treat, or does it offer more? To get answers, we reached out to an expert.
Surprisingly, apple crumble packs quite a punch when it comes to health benefits. From its main ingredient, apples, to the crunchy topping, this dessert offers a mix of nutrients that can be part of a balanced diet. Read ahead to explore why Alia's favourite dessert might be more than just a guilty pleasure.
The Apple: A Nutritional Powerhouse
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At the heart of apple crumble lies its star ingredient, the apple. Sakshi Singh, Nutritionist, Dietetic Place, Lucknow, says apples are not just delicious, they're also incredibly good for you. Here's why:
Fiber-rich goodness
The expert shared that apples are packed with fibre, especially a type called pectin. This fibre helps you feel full and can aid in digestion. “A medium-sized apple contains about 4.4 grams of fibre, which is about 17% of your daily needs,” shares Sakshi.
Antioxidant boost
Sakshi shares that apples are rich in antioxidants like quercetin, catechin, and chlorogenic acid. What makes it more special is that these compounds help protect your body from harmful free radicals and may lower your risk of chronic diseases.
Heart-healthy fruit
The fibre and antioxidants in apples may help lower cholesterol levels and protect against heart disease. Some studies suggest that eating apples regularly might reduce the risk of heart-related issues.
Blood sugar regulation
Irrespective of having a sweet taste, apples have a low glycemic index. They don't cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, making them a good choice for people always having a check on their blood sugar.
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The Crumble Is More Than Just a Topping
According to Sakshi, the crumble topping, typically made with oats, flour, and a bit of butter or oil, adds its own nutritional benefits:
Whole grains for sustained energy
The crumble in the oats has whole grains. It offers sustained energy and additional fibre. Additionally, they are also rich in beta-glucan, a type of fibre linked to lower cholesterol levels. A study published on PubMed claims preparing apple crumble with whole food ingredients like dates or maple syrup enhances its nutritional profile while reducing refined sugar intake
Essential minerals
Whole grain flour and oats contain important minerals like iron, magnesium, and zinc. These play crucial roles in various bodily functions, from carrying oxygen in your blood to supporting your immune system.
Balancing Indulgence and Nutrition
While apple crumble can offer health benefits, Sakshi noted that it is important to remember that it's still a dessert. She gave a few tips to make it even healthier:
- The natural sweetness of apples means you can often reduce the added sugar without sacrificing taste.
- Opt for whole wheat or oat flour instead of refined white flour for extra nutrients and fibre.
- Sprinkle some chopped nuts into the crumble topping for healthy fats and protein.
- Enjoy a small serving to satisfy your sweet tooth without overindulging.
Conclusion
Apple crumble, when prepared thoughtfully, can be more than just a dessert. It combines the nutritional benefits of apples with the wholesome goodness of whole grains. However, Alia Bhatt's love for apple crumble reflects a growing trend of mindful indulgence. By choosing desserts that offer some nutritional value, we can satisfy our cravings while still supporting our health goals. Just like Alia, you can enjoy this classic dessert knowing it's more than just empty calories and a delicious way to add some extra nutrition to your day.