There’s something comforting about the smell of cinnamon apples on the stove—but what if that comfort food also supported your gut health? For those looking to eat with intention, certified Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (FNTP) Alexa Aboudaram has created the perfect warm and functional dish: Gut-Loving Spiced Apples.
Alexa is the founder of Navigating Nutrients, where she helps individuals optimize energy, gut health, and thyroid balance through personalized nutrition rooted in science. With a calm, empowering approach, she transforms nutrition from something overwhelming into something you can actually enjoy. You can follow her insights and recipes on Instagram @NavigatingNutrients and on Facebook. This easy apple recipe checks all the boxes: it’s fast, warming, nourishing, and filled with ingredients that promote digestive balance.
You’re not just eating something cozy and satisfying. You’re actively helping your gut microbiome.
Why Cooked Apples Are a Gut Health Superfood
Apples are rich in pectin, a type of soluble fiber that acts as a prebiotic. Prebiotics feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut, helping to keep your digestive system functioning smoothly. However, there’s a catch, pectin becomes more bioavailable when the apples are cooked. “When the skins turn shiny, that’s the sign the pectin is being released,” Alexa explains. “You’re not just eating something cozy and satisfying. You’re actively helping your gut microbiome.” That’s why this simple, aromatic recipe offers more than just fall vibes. It’s a functional food that fits right into an evidence-based approach to wellness.
Gut-Loving Spiced Apples
By Alexa Aboudaram, FNTP, founder of Navigating Nutrients
Ingredients:
4–6 organic apples (do not peel)
1½ teaspoons cinnamon
¼ teaspoon allspice
⅛ teaspoon cardamom
Pinch of salt
¼ cup raisins
Instructions:
Wash apples thoroughly and leave the skins on.
Cut into ½-inch slices.
Place apples in a pot and add water to cover about one-third of the fruit (they should not be submerged).
Add spices, raisins, and any additional dried fruit or spices you like.
Bring to a gentle boil.
Cook uncovered for 8–10 minutes, or until the apple skins become shiny, that’s the sign the pectin has been released.
Once softened and glossy, remove from heat and serve warm.
Serving Tip:
These spiced apples are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them warm over vanilla ice cream, yogurt, or with a spoonful of coconut whip. The combination is both indulgent and gut-friendly, comfort food that does your body good.
Alexa Aboudaram is the founder of Navigating Nutrients, where she helps people optimize their energy and overall health through personalized, evidence-based nutrition. Specializing in gut, thyroid, and energy health, Alexa combines scientific training with real-world experience to create practical, sustainable changes that build confidence around food and lifestyle choices. She is a certified Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (FNTP).
Follow her for more recipes and wellness tips:
Instagram: @NavigatingNutrients
Facebook: Navigating Nutrients
