What's Healthier: Sipping Cider or Apple Juice?

In the US, cider is simply apple juice that hasn’t been filtered to remove the pulp. Because it hasn’t been processed as much, cider offers more health-protective antioxidants than clear apple juice. But, even sipping cider won’t give you as many health benefits as munching on a whole apple.

A medium-sized, unpeeled apple offers you about four grams of dietary fiber and just 80 calories. That’s 15 percent of the daily fiber recommendation for adults. Studies show that fiber may help lower blood cholesterol levels and keep your digestion moving smoothly.

So, an apple a day still keeps the doctor at bay. But if it’s an apple beverage you’re craving, cider is a great choice. Keep in mind that cider straight from the mill has not been pasteurized to kill harmful bacteria. Although most of our immune systems can handle this, those who may be vulnerable include pregnant women, infants and children, the elderly and people with cancer, diabetes or AIDS. If you’re in this group, the FDA recommends that you boil unpasteurized cider before drinking it.

Few things are better than a warm drink on a frosty day. Beat the fall chill with a steaming cup of this Spiced Apple Pomegranate Cider.

Ingredients:
1 gallon apple cider
6 whole cloves
3 (2-inch-long) strips lemon rind
2 cinnamon sticks
2 cups pomegranate juice

Instructions:

1. Combine the first 5 ingredients in a large stockpot over medium-high heat; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low.
2. Add the vanilla bean; cover and simmer 15 minutes.
3. Remove from heat; let stand at room temperature for 1 hour or up to 4 hours.
4. Discard solids.
5. Stir in pomegranate juice. Reheat over medium heat until warm.

Yield: 16 Servings

Each serving provides:
Calories: 115
Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrate: 30 g
Protein: 1 g
Sugars: 29 g