Health Benefits Of Apricots

Apricots may be small, but they are big on both flavour and nutrition. This yellow-orange fruit is rich in vitamins and minerals and comes in a variety of flavours from sweet to sour, depending on the variety. When ripe, the apricot pulp becomes soft and slightly juicy and the peel becomes velvety and soft. 

Prunus armeniaca is native to China, where it was first cultivated about 4,000 years ago. This delicious stone fruit was much loved by locals, traders, and travellers alike, so it’s no surprise that it made its way westward along the Silk Road. Over time, apricots began to grow throughout Central Asia and the Middle East. 

Apricots arrived in the Mediterranean about 2,000 years ago and thrived in warm, sunny climates. Currently, Turkey and Iran are the world’s largest producers of apricots. 

Apricots come in different varieties, with Blenheim, Tilton and Moorpark being the most popular.

Health Benefits of Apricots

Low Calories:

Apricots are a low-calorie fruit with only 17 calories per raw apricot. For comparison, a medium-sized apple has 104 calories. So even 6 raw apricots have less calories than 1 apple. 

Dried apricots are high in calories and sugar, but they are richer in vitamins and minerals than fresh apricots. This makes them a great snack option that is both nutritious and can satisfy your sweet cravings. 

Rich in Antioxidants:

Apricots are rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene and vitamins A and C. Antioxidants help protect your body from disease by fighting the effects of free radicals that can accumulate over time and damage cells. 

Improves gut health:

Apricots are an excellent source of dietary fibre, both soluble and insoluble. Fibre is very important for preventing digestive problems like constipation and for the growth of good bacteria in the intestine. 

Protects the heart:

Due to its high fibre content, apricots are good for reducing bad cholesterol and increasing good cholesterol. Apricots are rich in potassium, which helps promote healthy heart function. 

Improves eye health:

Apricots are rich in vitamin A or retinol, which promotes healthy vision. Additionally, the beta-carotene found in apricots reduces the risk of age-related macular degeneration, which can lead to blindness.

Strengthens bones:

Apricots are rich in calcium, which is essential for bone development and maintenance. Potassium in apricots helps absorb calcium, which is beneficial for bone health. 

Reduces the risk of anaemia:

Apricots are rich in iron, which improves blood flow and reduces the risk of anaemia. Copper in apricots helps absorb iron. 

Improves skin health:

Phytonutrients in apricots, such as vitamin C and vitamin A, protect against sun damage, promote collagen production, and fight inflammation that causes acne and other skin problems. Masu. and promotes skin health. 

May be suitable for diabetics:

Apricots have a low glycemic index, so eating small amounts will not cause a rise in blood sugar levels. Research shows that consuming moderate amounts of fructose from dried fruits such as dried apricots may help control blood sugar levels after meals.

Visits: 36