The health benefits of apricots have been known since ancient times. The origin of the apricot has often been disputed, but it is believed to have migrated to the Americas from China or the Middle East. Apricots play a vital role in traditional Chinese medicine and the expression ‘Expert of the apricot grove' is a poetic reference to a physician.
Apricots are small golden fruits with a tinge of red on the side that is most exposed to sunlight. They have a sweet flavour with a tinge of tartness. Fresh apricots are available seasonally, but dried and canned apricots are available all year round. The health benefits of dried apricots are equal, if not more, to that of the fresh fruits.
Since we require 3 or 4 lb of fresh fruit to make 1 lb of dried fruit, the dried apricot has a higher concentration of nutrients and vitamins in them than fresh apricot. Consequently, dried apricot also has slightly higher carbohydrate content than the fresh fruit. Here are some of the health benefits of apricot, which are quite wide and varied.
The health benefits of apricot are largely due to the presence of a variety of vitamins and minerals in it. It has high beta-carotene content and is a source of soluble and insoluble fibres.
One of the main health benefits of apricot is its ability to prevent cancer. Apricot is rich in Vitamin A, which is a good antioxidant and is effective in preventing many types of cancer.
Apricots can contribute much for a healthy heart. The beta-carotene in apricots helps reduce bad cholesterol (LDL). Vitamin C, which is also present in apricot, reduces the risk of heart diseases. Potassium, iron and calcium increases the health benefits of dried apricot for heart health.
Vitamin A is one of the main ingredients that is responsible for the health benefits of apricot. It is good for your eyesight and helps in preventing age related vision loss.
The health benefits of apricot are paramount when it comes to weight loss. This fruit is high in fibre and other essential nutrients and low in calorie. But dried apricot has slightly higher calorie than the fresh fruit, so those of you looking for a low calorie diet should opt for fresh apricot.
Apricots are good options for a healthy skin. Add apricots in your daily diet and get that glowing look because the antioxidants in this fruit helps prevent early ageing, acne and other skin problems. This is one of the health benefits of dried apricot as well.
The high fibre content in apricots ensures a good metabolism rate, reduces constipation and increases the health benefits of dried apricot. If you have digestive disturbances, apricots will be a good choice.
Calcium, which is essential to develop strong bones, can be found in apricots. The health benefits of dried apricots in this aspect, especially towards middle aged women who run a high risk of decreased bone strength, are exemplary.
The electrolytes present in apricots contribute to the major part of health benefit of apricot. This will help maintain the fluid level in our body and keeps the body hydrated. It also helps in muscle contraction.
Yet another in the list of health benefits of apricot is that it helps prevent anaemia. Apricot is a rich source of iron which is essential to blood flow and formation of blood cells.
Have it fresh, dried or as a juice, indulge in a delicious and healthy apricot today!