Discover the 11 Health and Nutrition Benefits of Apricots

Apricots are a small, orange fruit that is widely consumed across the world. They have a sweet, delicate flavor that makes them a popular choice for both sweet and savory dishes. But did you know that apricots are also packed with essential nutrients that offer numerous health benefits? In this article, we’ll explore the 10 health and nutrition benefits of apricots that make them a must-have addition to your diet

1. Very nutritious and low in calories

Apricots are highly nutritious fruit that is also low in calories. They are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, which are all essential nutrients that support the proper functioning of the body.

At the same time, apricots are low in calories, making them an ideal food for those who are watching their weight or looking to maintain a healthy diet. By adding apricots to your diet, you can increase your nutrient intake without adding excess calories, making it easier to achieve your health and wellness goals.

Nutrition facts about apricot

The nutrition facts of apricots can vary slightly depending on whether you’re looking at fresh, canned, or dried apricots. However, some general nutrition facts for fresh apricots include:

  • Calories: 48
  • Carbohydrates: 11 grams
  • Fiber: 2 grams
  • Protein: 1 gram
  • Fat: less than 1 gram
  • Vitamin A: 14% of the Daily Value (DV)
  • Vitamin C: 17% of the DV
  • Potassium: 6% of the DV
  • Iron: 2% of the DV

Apricots are also a good source of other vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, vitamin K, calcium, and magnesium. Additionally, they contain beneficial antioxidants like beta-carotene and lutein.

It’s worth noting that dried apricots are more calorie-dense and higher in sugar than fresh apricots due to the removal of water content during the drying process. Canned apricots may also have added sugars, so it’s important to check the nutrition label if you’re trying to monitor your sugar intake.

2. May promote eye health

Apricots are a great food choice for promoting eye health. They are rich in beta-carotene, a type of antioxidant that the body converts into vitamin A. Vitamin A is an essential nutrient for maintaining healthy eyes and vision. It helps to keep the surface of the eyes moist and promotes good night vision.

In addition to being a good source of beta-carotene and vitamin A, apricots also contain other important antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin. These antioxidants help to protect the eyes from damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to the development of age-related eye diseases such as macular degeneration and cataracts.

Furthermore, apricots are high in fiber, which can help to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes. Diabetes is a major risk factor for many eye diseases, including diabetic retinopathy, which can cause vision loss if left untreated.

Overall, by consuming apricots regularly, you can increase your intake of important nutrients that are essential for promoting good eye health. They are a great addition to a healthy and balanced diet and can help to reduce the risk of developing eye-related problems later in life.

3. May boost skin health

Apricots are a great source of vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining healthy skin. Vitamin A helps to promote the growth and repair of skin cells, as well as supporting the production of collagen, a protein that gives skin its elasticity and firmness.

In addition to being a good source of vitamin A, apricots also contain other important vitamins and minerals that can help to promote skin health. For example, they are high in vitamin C, which is an antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Vitamin C also supports the production of collagen, helping to keep skin looking firm and youthful.

Apricots also contain small amounts of zinc, which is important for maintaining healthy skin. Zinc helps to regulate oil production in the skin, preventing excess oil buildup that can lead to acne and other skin problems. Additionally, zinc supports the healing of damaged skin, helping to reduce the appearance of scars and blemishes.

By consuming apricots regularly, you can increase your intake of important nutrients that are essential for promoting healthy skin. They are a great addition to a healthy and balanced diet and can help to keep your skin looking radiant and youthful.

4. High in potassium

Apricots are a great source of potassium, an important mineral that plays a key role in many bodily functions. One medium-sized apricot contains approximately 80 milligrams of potassium, which is about 2% of the daily recommended intake of this mineral for adults.

Potassium is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels, as well as supporting the proper function of the heart and other organs. It also helps to regulate fluid balance in the body, which is important for preventing dehydration and maintaining healthy kidney function.

By consuming apricots regularly, you can increase your intake of potassium and promote better overall health. They are a great addition to a healthy and balanced diet and can help to support healthy blood pressure levels and proper organ function.

5. May promote gut health

Apricots are a good source of fiber, which is essential for maintaining healthy digestion and promoting gut health. One medium-sized apricot contains approximately 1.5 grams of fiber, which is about 6% of the daily recommended intake of this nutrient for adults.

Fiber helps to regulate bowel movements, preventing constipation and promoting regularity. It also feeds the beneficial bacteria in the gut, helping to maintain a healthy balance of microorganisms in the digestive tract. This can help to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria that can lead to digestive problems and other health issues.

In addition to promoting gut health, fiber has also been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer. By consuming apricots regularly, you can increase your intake of fiber and promote better overall health.

Apricots are versatile fruit that can be enjoyed in many different ways. They can be eaten fresh, dried, or cooked into a variety of dishes, making them a great addition to a healthy and balanced diet. Whether you enjoy them on their own as a snack or incorporate them into your favorite recipes, apricots are a delicious and nutritious food that can help to promote gut health and overall well-being.

6. High in antioxidants

Apricots are high in antioxidants, which are important nutrients that help to protect the body against damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. One of the main antioxidants found in apricots is vitamin C, which plays a key role in maintaining a healthy immune system and protecting against diseases like cancer and heart disease.

In addition to vitamin C, apricots also contain other important antioxidants like beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. These nutrients help to protect the body against oxidative stress, which can damage cells and lead to chronic diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

By consuming apricots regularly, you can increase your intake of antioxidants and promote better overall health. They are a great addition to a healthy and balanced diet and can help to protect against a wide range of health problems caused by oxidative stress and other harmful factors.

7. Very hydrating

Apricots are a very hydrating fruit, with a high water content that can help to keep you hydrated and maintain healthy fluid balance in the body. One medium-sized apricot contains approximately 17 milliliters of water, which is about 85% of its total weight.

Staying hydrated is important for maintaining healthy bodily functions, including regulating body temperature, delivering nutrients and oxygen to the cells, and removing waste products from the body. Dehydration can lead to a wide range of health problems, including fatigue, dizziness, and even heatstroke in extreme cases.

By consuming apricots regularly, you can increase your water intake and promote better overall hydration. They are a tasty and convenient way to stay hydrated throughout the day and can be enjoyed fresh or dried as a healthy snack or ingredient in a variety of recipes.

8. Support Heart Health

Apricots can also support heart health in several ways. They are a good source of potassium, a mineral that is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. Potassium helps to counteract the effects of sodium, which can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease.

In addition to potassium, apricots are also a good source of dietary fiber, which has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease. Fiber helps to lower cholesterol levels in the blood by binding to cholesterol and preventing it from being absorbed into the body. This can help to reduce the risk of heart disease and other related health problems.

Furthermore, the antioxidants found in apricots can help to protect the heart against oxidative stress and inflammation, which are key factors in the development of heart disease. By consuming apricots regularly as part of a healthy and balanced diet, you can support heart health and reduce your risk of developing heart disease and related health problems.

9. Prevent Anemia

Apricots are a good source of iron, a mineral that is essential for the production of red blood cells in the body. Iron deficiency is a common cause of anemia, a condition characterized by a lack of healthy red blood cells in the body.

By consuming apricots regularly, you can increase your intake of iron and help to prevent iron deficiency anemia. In addition to iron, apricots also contain vitamin C, which can help to improve the absorption of iron from plant-based sources like apricots.

Anemia can lead to a wide range of health problems, including fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. By including apricots in your diet, you can help to ensure that your body has enough iron to produce healthy red blood cells and maintain good overall health.

10. Improve Bone Health

Apricots can also help to improve bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weak and brittle bones. They are a good source of several key nutrients that are important for maintaining strong and healthy bones, including calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin K.

Calcium and phosphorus are essential minerals that make up the structural components of bones and teeth. Adequate intake of these minerals is important for maintaining strong bones and reducing the risk of fractures and other related health problems.

Vitamin K is also important for bone health, as it helps to regulate calcium absorption and promote bone mineralization. A deficiency in vitamin K has been linked to an increased risk of fractures and osteoporosis.

By consuming apricots regularly as part of a healthy and balanced diet, you can increase your intake of these key nutrients and support good bone health. Additionally, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of apricots may also help to reduce inflammation and improve bone density, further reducing the risk of osteoporosis and related health problems.

11. May protect your liver

Apricots contain several compounds that may help to protect the liver and improve its overall function. These compounds include antioxidants, such as vitamin C and beta-carotene, as well as other bioactive compounds like quercetin and catechins.

The liver is responsible for filtering toxins and other harmful substances from the blood, and it plays a crucial role in overall health. By consuming apricots regularly, you can help to support the liver and reduce the risk of liver damage and related health problems.

In addition to their antioxidant properties, apricots also contain dietary fiber, which has been shown to help improve liver function and reduce the risk of liver disease. Fiber can help to lower cholesterol levels and improve insulin sensitivity, both of which are important factors in liver health.

Overall, consuming apricots as part of a healthy and balanced diet may help to protect your liver and improve its overall function, supporting good health and reducing the risk of liver disease and related health problems.

How many fresh apricots can I eat a day?

The recommended daily intake of fresh apricots varies depending on factors such as age, sex, and overall health. However, in general, it is safe for most people to consume up to 3-4 fresh apricots per day as part of a healthy and balanced diet. This amount provides a good source of important vitamins and minerals, as well as beneficial compounds like antioxidants and fiber.

It’s worth noting that consuming very large amounts of apricots (or any food) can lead to digestive issues such as bloating or diarrhea, so it’s important to enjoy them in moderation. If you have any specific concerns or dietary restrictions, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian.

Are apricots high in sugar?

Apricots do contain natural sugars, but they are not considered to be high in sugar compared to many other fruits. A fresh apricot contains around 3-4 grams of natural sugar, which is relatively low.

In fact, apricots are often recommended as a healthy snack option for those who are trying to reduce their sugar intake. It’s worth noting that dried apricots can be higher in sugar than fresh ones, as the drying process concentrates the natural sugars.

Additionally, some canned or packaged apricot products may have added sugars, so it’s always a good idea to check the nutrition label if you are trying to monitor your sugar intake. Overall, fresh apricots can be a great way to satisfy a sweet tooth while still enjoying the many health benefits that this fruit has to offer.

Which is better kiwi or Apricot?

Both kiwis and apricots are nutritious fruits that offer a variety of health benefits. Choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference and individual health goals.

Kiwi fruit is particularly high in vitamin C, with just one large kiwi containing more than the recommended daily intake. It is also a good source of dietary fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. Kiwi has a tart and slightly sweet flavor, with a unique texture that some people love.

Apricots, on the other hand, are a good source of vitamin A, potassium, and fiber. They are also high in antioxidants and have been linked to several health benefits such as improved eye and skin health, as well as heart health. Apricots have a sweet and slightly tangy flavor, with a juicy texture that can be quite satisfying.

In terms of which fruit is better, it really depends on what you are looking for in terms of nutrition and taste. If you need a vitamin C boost, then Kiwi may be the better choice. If you’re interested in the health benefits of vitamin A or antioxidants, apricots might be a better option. Ultimately, both fruits can be enjoyed as part of a healthy and balanced diet, and incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables is key to meeting your daily nutrient needs.

Conclusion

In conclusion, apricots are highly nutritious fruit that offers a wide range of health benefits. They are high in antioxidants, low in calories, and a good source of many essential vitamins and minerals. Apricots may promote eye health, skin health, gut health, and heart health, and they may also help prevent anemia and improve bone health. With their high potassium content and hydrating properties, apricots can also help support overall health and well-being.

Whether you enjoy fresh apricots as a snack, use them in recipes, or opt for dried apricots as a convenient and nutritious snack, incorporating apricots into your diet can be a delicious and healthy choice.

Image Credit: Image by stockking on Freepik

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