Also known as Armenian plums, apricots are stone fruits. They are round yellow fruits, resembling a peach and having the same tartness as that of plums. They are believed to have been originally cultivated in China, until they were discovered by the Persians. Countries like Russia, France, Spain, Italy, Turkey, and the USA are the leading producer of apricots.
There are a variety of apricots including Moorpark, Tilton, and Blenheim. Considered to be one of the healthiest and most nutritious fruits, apricots are loaded with benefits. Here are the nutrition values and apricot health benefits.
Nutrition Values of Apricot
- carbohydrates: 3.89 g
- sugars: 3.23 g
- fibre: 0.7 g
- energy: 16.8 calories
- vitamin A: 33.6 mcg
- vitamin B-6: 0.02 mg
- vitamin C: 3.5 mg
- vitamin E: 0.31 mg
- vitamin K: 1.16 mcg
- niacin: 0.21 mg
- beta-carotene: 383 mcg
- selenium: 0.04 micrograms (mcg)
- thiamine: 0.01 mg
- riboflavin: 0.01 mg
- zinc: 0.07 mg
- protein: 0.49 g
- fat: 0.14 g
- copper: 0.03 mg
- sodium: 0.35 mg
- potassium: 90.6 mg
- phosphorus: 8.05 mg
- calcium: 4.55 milligrams (mg)
- magnesium: 3.5 mg
- iron: 0.14 mg
Top Apricot Health Benefits
Promotes Skin Health
UV rays, cigarette smoke, and pollution are some of the key reasons leading to skin damage. Certain skin damage can be relieved by apricots, thanks to the high content of antioxidants in the fruit. Vitamin C present in apricot can safeguard you skin against common environmental pollutants and UV damage. It can also prevent wrinkles and help build collagen that can promote skin elasticity and strength.
Boosts Digestion
Apricots are packed with a high content of dietary fibre that can aid your digestive tract. They contain both insoluble and soluble fibre. While insoluble fibre promotes the levels of healthy gut bacteria, soluble fibre ensures sufficient water in the digestive tract and lets good bacteria thrive.
Promotes Eye Health
Packed with high levels of Vitamins A and E, apricots aid eye health. Vitamin E safeguards the eyes against free radical damage, while Vitamin A helps prevent night blindness.
Protects the Liver
One of the top apricot health benefits is that it helps in safeguarding your liver against oxidative stress. It prevents liver damage, thanks to its high content of antioxidants.
Strengthens the Bones
Having a very rich content of calcium, apricot helps in bone formation and development. Apricot even has a high content of potassium, which is required by the body to ensure calcium absorption.
Keeps the Body Hydrated
Apricots have a very high-water content, which helps promote joint health and regulate heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature. Keeping the body hydrated also lets the blood circulate nutrients all through the body. Eating apricot can also replenish water as well as electrolyte in your body.
The Final Words
Apricots are delicious as well as nutritious. They are packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and fibre and have a wide range of health benefits. The apricot health benefits range from improving gut health to promoting eye health. You can take fresh apricots or add apricots powder to your salads and yogurt.
Disclaimer:
The above statements are not intended to cure any disease or comply with any health benefits. This is solely for information purposes. Please consult your doctor/health practitioner before consumption of the product. Although we take efforts to keep our website informative, we do not guarantee any medical benefits.