Warding off heart disease. The juice works by delaying the breakdown of so-called bad cholesterol, known as low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which forms fatty deposits inside artery walls, increasing the risk of a deadly blood clot.

US scientists who looked at the effects of apple juice in 25 volunteers found three-quarters of a pint a day had a dramatic effect on the breakdown of LDL.

Salicylic acid and other phytonutrients - naturally occurring plant chemicals that stop LDL from oxidising and damaging blood vessels.