Potassium is an important mineral for mental health and brain function due to the role it plays in maintaining the electrical conductivity of the brain and nerve transmissions. Potassium is also central to the transportation of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that promotes feelings of well-being and happiness.
Indeed, a recent Australian study on 6000 individuals showed that middle aged women who ate two apples a day were less likely to be depressed. In this study the success was attributed to the fruit’s high anti-inflammatory compounds and antioxidants which made women feel better in general. These same phytochemicals can help with memory improvement because they trigger the neurotransmitter acetylcholine into working.
So, turns out the apple a day is as good for the brain as it is for the body.
Here's an excellent way of using apples in a cake - and its super healthy too!
Apple & Raspberry Oat Cake
Ingredients
- 150 g oats
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp Greek yoghurt
- 60 ml pure maple syrup (+1 tbsp)
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 3 tbsp unsweetened almond milk
- 1 apple, finely sliced
- 50 g raspberries
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground cardamon (optional but highly recommended!)
- 6 almonds, chopped
- Butter to grease loaf tin
- Loaf tin
- Food processor
Method
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees.
Add the oats in a food processor and mix until fine.
Add in baking powder and 1 tsp cinnamon and mix.
Add egg, greek yoghurt, almond milk and 60ml of maple syrup and mix again.
In a separate bowl, add the sliced apples with 1 tbsp maple syrup and the teaspoon of cinnamon (and cardamom if using). Mix well.
Grease a loaf tin, add in the dough from the food processor at the bottom and press in the raspberries, then the apples.
Top up with the chopped almonds and bake in the oven for 40 minutes.
PS: They are best served warm!
