Apricots
Apricots are a nutrient-dense fruit that offer a range of health benefits, including supporting digestion, immunity, eye health, skin health, bone health, heart health, weight loss, brain function, and potentially reducing the risk of cancer. Adding apricots to your diet can be a tasty and healthy way to boost your overall health and well-being.
1. Rich in Nutrients
Apricots are a good source of nutrients like Vitamin A, C, E, and K, potassium, fiber, and antioxidants.
2. Good for Digestion
The fiber in apricots can help regulate digestion and prevent constipation.
3. Boosts Immunity
The high levels of Vitamin C in apricots can help boost the immune system, helping to fight off infections and diseases.
🅵🆄🅽 🅵🅰🅲🆃
˜”*°•. The kernel inside the apricot pit is sometimes used to make amaretto liqueur .•°*”˜
4. Good for Eye Health
The high levels of Vitamin A in apricots are important for maintaining good vision and can help prevent age-related macular degeneration.
5. Promotes Healthy Skin
The antioxidants in apricots help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, helping to promote healthy, youthful-looking skin.
6. May Reduce Inflammation
Apricots contain flavonoids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the body.
7. May Lower Cholesterol
Some studies suggest that apricots may help lower cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease.
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˜”*°•. The Turkish city of Malatya is known for producing some of the world’s best apricots .•°*”˜
8. Supports Bone Health
Apricots contain calcium, phosphorus, and potassium, which are essential minerals for maintaining strong bones and preventing osteoporosis.
9. May Improve Heart Health
Apricots are a good source of dietary fiber and potassium, which are important for maintaining a healthy heart. The fiber in apricots can help reduce cholesterol levels, while potassium can help regulate blood pressure.
10. May Aid Weight Loss
Apricots are low in calories and high in fiber, making them a great addition to a weight loss diet. The fiber in apricots can help you feel full for longer, reducing the amount of food you eat throughout the day.
11. May Improve Brain Function
Apricots contain choline, a nutrient that is important for brain development and function. Choline has been shown to improve memory and cognitive function in some studies.
12. May Reduce the Risk of Cancer
The antioxidants in apricots may help protect against cancer by preventing damage to cells caused by free radicals. Some studies suggest that apricot kernel extract may have anti-cancer properties, although more research is needed in this area.
13. May Improve Blood Sugar Control
Apricots have a low glycemic index, which means they do not cause a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. The fiber and antioxidants in apricots may also help improve insulin sensitivity, which can be beneficial for people with diabetes.
14. May Aid in Pregnancy
Apricots are a good source of folate, a nutrient that is important for the development of the fetal brain and spinal cord during pregnancy. Adequate folate intake can also help reduce the risk of birth defects.
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˜”*°•. Apricot trees can live up to 40 years and can grow up to 30 feet tall .•°*”˜
15. May Improve Sleep
Apricots contain the hormone melatonin, which regulates sleep-wake cycles. Consuming apricots or apricot products, such as juice or jam, may help improve sleep quality and duration.
16. May Reduce Inflammation in the Skin
Apricot kernel oil, which is derived from the seeds of the fruit, has anti-inflammatory properties and may help soothe irritated or inflamed skin.
17. May Improve Digestive Health
Apricots contain prebiotic fiber, which helps feed the beneficial bacteria in the gut. This can help improve digestion and reduce the risk of digestive disorders.
18. May Improve Hair Health
The vitamin E in apricots can help nourish and strengthen hair, reducing the risk of hair loss and promoting healthy hair growth.
19. May Improve Liver Function
Apricots are rich in antioxidants and nutrients that can help protect the liver from damage caused by toxins and free radicals. Some studies suggest that apricot extract may help improve liver function in people with liver damage.
🅵🆄🅽 🅵🅰🅲🆃
˜”*°•. Apricots are a member of the rose family and are closely related to peaches, plums, and almonds .•°*”˜
20. May Improve Respiratory Health
Apricots are a good source of Vitamin C, which is important for maintaining respiratory health. Vitamin C can help reduce the severity and duration of respiratory infections like the common cold and flu.
21. May Reduce the Risk of Age-Related Diseases
The antioxidants in apricots can help protect against age-related diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain.
22. May Improve Athletic Performance
Apricots are a good source of carbohydrates, which are important for providing energy during exercise. They also contain potassium, which can help prevent muscle cramps and improve muscle function.
23. May Improve Mood
Apricots contain tryptophan, an amino acid that helps produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is important for regulating mood. Consuming apricots may help improve mood and reduce the risk of depression and anxiety.
24. May Improve Skin Appearance
Apricots are rich in Vitamin C, which can help boost collagen production and improve skin elasticity. They also contain antioxidants that can help protect the skin from damage caused by the sun and other environmental factors.
In summary, apricots are a nutrient-dense fruit that offer a wide range of health benefits, including improving liver function, respiratory health, athletic performance, mood, and skin appearance. Adding apricots to your diet is a simple and delicious way to support your overall health and well-being.
Nutrient |
Amount per 100g |
---|---|
Calories |
48 |
Carbohydrates |
11 g |
Fiber |
2 g |
Protein |
1 g |
Fat |
0.4 g |
Vitamin A |
1926 IU (38% DV) |
Vitamin C |
10 mg (17% DV) |
Vitamin E |
0.9 mg (5% DV) |
Vitamin K |
3.3 mcg (4% DV) |
Thiamin |
0.03 mg (2% DV) |
Riboflavin |
0.04 mg (2% DV) |
Niacin |
0.6 mg (3% DV) |
Vitamin B6 |
0.1 mg (4% DV) |
Folate |
9 mcg (2% DV) |
Pantothenic acid |
0.2 mg (2% DV) |
Calcium |
13 mg (1% DV) |
Iron |
0.4 mg (2% DV) |
Magnesium |
10 mg (3% DV) |
Phosphorus |
23 mg (2% DV) |
Potassium |
259 mg (7% DV) |
Sodium |
1 mg (0% DV) |
Zinc |
0.2 mg (1% DV) |
Copper |
0.05 mg (3% DV) |
Manganese |
0.1 mg (4% DV) |
How to Eat Apricots?
Apricots are a versatile fruit that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some different ways to eat apricots:
1. Fresh: Wash apricots, remove the pit, and eat them fresh. You can enjoy them as a snack or slice them and add to salads, yogurt, or smoothies.
2. Grilled or baked: Cut apricots in half, brush them with honey or maple syrup, and grill or bake until they are tender and caramelized. Grilled or baked apricots are delicious on their own, or they can be served with ice cream or whipped cream.
3. Dried: Apricots can be dried to preserve them for long-term storage. Dried apricots make a tasty snack and can also be used in baking, granolas, and trail mixes.
4. Jam: Apricots make a delicious jam that can be enjoyed on toast, scones, or used as a glaze for meats.
5. Chutney: Apricot chutney is a sweet and spicy condiment that can be used as a topping for grilled meats or as a dip for crackers or chips.
6. Pie or tart: Apricots are a great fruit for making pies or tarts. You can make a simple apricot tart by arranging sliced apricots on a pastry crust and baking until golden brown.
7. Sauce: Apricots can be cooked down with sugar and spices to make a sweet and tangy sauce that can be used as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or ice cream.
8. Smoothies: Add fresh or frozen apricots to your favorite smoothie recipe for a sweet and refreshing treat.
There are many ways to enjoy apricots, so get creative and try different recipes to find your favorite way to eat them!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are apricots?
A: Apricots are small, round, orange-colored fruits with a soft, juicy interior and a hard, outer pit. They are a member of the Prunus family, which includes other stone fruits like peaches, plums, and cherries.
Q: When are apricots in season?
A: Apricots are typically in season from May to August in the Northern Hemisphere, although the exact timing can vary depending on the region.
Q: How do I prepare apricots for eating or cooking?
A: To eat fresh apricots, simply wash them and remove the pit. They can be eaten raw, sliced in half and baked, or cooked in jams, pies, and other desserts. Apricots can also be dried or canned for long-term storage.
Q: Are apricots safe for people with nut allergies?
A: Although apricots are related to almonds, they are not considered a nut and are generally safe for people with nut allergies to consume. However, if you have a severe allergy, it’s always best to consult with your doctor before trying any new foods.
Q: Can apricots be harmful?
A: In rare cases, apricot pits can contain a small amount of a toxic substance called amygdalin, which can release cyanide when consumed in large amounts. However, the flesh of the fruit is safe to eat and the risk of toxicity from apricot pits is very low unless consumed in large quantities.
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Reference:
Medicinal Value of Apricot: A Review
https://www.eatingwell.com/article/17129/5-powerful-health-benefits-of-asparagus-you-probably-didnt-know/
Reviewed by S. GUPTA*, M. CHHAJED1, S. ARORA, GURJEET THAKUR AND RENU GUPTA2
The potential of apricot seed and oil as functional food: Composition, biological properties, health benefits & safety
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/366577916_The_potential_of_apricot_seed_and_oil_as_functional_food_Composition_biological_properties_health_benefits_safety
, Sidra Anwar, Bello Mohammed Yunusa, Gulzar Ahmad Nayik, Amin Mousavi Khaneghah
Morphological, Nutritional and potential health benefits of Apricot. A mini review
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/309591791_Morphological_Nutritional_and_potential_health_benefits_of_Apricot_A_mini_review
Amir Gull, Tariq Ahmad Safapuri, Kamlesh Prasad, Pradyuman Kumar
Exploring the Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Properties of Apricot Kernel Oil
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/371045036_Exploring_the_Chemical_Composition_and_Antioxidant_Properties_of_Apricot_Kernel_Oil
Ioannis Makrygiannis 1, Vassilis Athanasiadis 1, Theodoros Chatzimitakos 1, Eleni Bozinou 1, Christiana Mantzourani 2, Arhontoula Chatzilazarou 3, Dimitris P. Makris 1and Stavros I. Lalas 1,
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