What is an Apricot?
One of the most multipurpose fruits, the Apricot, was thought to have originated in China before being discovered by the Persians. It’s also debatable if it came from Armenia, even though the fruit has grown since ancient times. The fruit’s full appeal was discovered when it made its way to the Mediterranean. The fruit is credited to Spanish explorers for bringing it to the Americas, where it now thrives. Another school of thinking states that the apricot was cultivated in India as early as 3000 BC.
Regardless of debates, no one can deny the advantages of the apricot. It’s equally popular raw as it is cooked. The dried variety of this fruit is popular worldwide, and it is a key element of Iran’s international trade. This fleshy yellowish-orange fruit is a strange little item. The microscopic hairs on the outer skin give it a velvety, fuzzy feel and allow it to be eaten without peeling. It’s also one of the world’s healthiest fruits, with several advantages. 100 grams of fresh apricots are reported to provide the body with 12 % of Vit C, 12 percent of vitamin A, and 6 percent of the potassium it needs — all for less than 50 calories.
Let’s take a look at Apricots benefits that you might never know
1)Rich in Antioxidants
Many antioxidants, such as beta carotene and vitamins A, C, and E, may be found in apricots. Furthermore, they’re high in flavonoids, a type of polyphenol antioxidant that has been proved to protect against diabetes and heart disease. Free radicals are toxic molecules that damage your cells and produce oxidative stress. These substances act to neutralize them.
Obesity and many chronic illnesses, such as heart disease are connected to oxidative stress. Vitamin A, commonly known as retinol, is abundant in apricots. It’s fat-soluble and aids in eyesight improvement, among other things. Apricots benefits to maintain a healthy immune system, which protects your skin. Retinol and Beta Carotene (both found in apricots) also lower your risk of developing Neovascular ARMD. This age-related macular degeneration causes vision loss over time.
2)Aids Skin-health
Apricots benefits your skin. Environmental factors such as the sun, pollution, and cigarette smoke are the primary causes of wrinkles and skin damage. Furthermore, research shows a correlation between UV radiation exposure, sunburns, and your chance of developing melanoma, a lethal form of skin cancer. Notably, a nutritious diet rich in antioxidants, such as apricots, can apricots benefits to prevent some of this skin damage. Vitamins C and E, both abundant in this fruit, may be beneficial to your skin. Vitamin C, in particular, protects against UV damage and pollution by neutralizing free radicals.
3)Rich in Fiber
Apricots, whether dried or fresh, are a rich source of dietary fiber. It breaks down fatty acids quickly, indicating that your stomach is in good shape. Furthermore, the fruit protects you from gastrointestinal issues by clearing out your intestines regularly.
One cup of sliced apricots (165 grams) has 3.3 grams of fiber, which is 8.6% and 13.2% of the daily value for men and women, respectively. Both soluble and insoluble fiber may be found in apricots. The soluble kind comprises pectin, gums, and long chains of sugar called polysaccharides. In contrast, the insoluble kind contains cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, which do not dissolve in water.
Apricots are high in soluble fiber, which is beneficial for keeping blood sugar and cholesterol levels in check. Fiber slows the passage of food through your digestive tract and provides nourishment for your gut flora. Obesity risk is reduced when the gut microbiota is healthy.
4)Good for the Heart
Because the fruit is abundant in fiber, it aids in the reduction of harmful cholesterol levels in the body, which protects your heart. At the same time, it raises healthy cholesterol levels. In addition, the potassium in the apricot benefits to maintain electrolyte balance in our bodies, which keeps our cardiac muscles in good shape. Simply eat one or two fresh apricots or a handful of dried apricots per day.
Also Read, The Iron Rich Diet to make you Iron Man
5)Provides Hydration
Apricots, like other fruits, are high in water, which can aid in the regulation of blood pressure, body temperature, joint health, and heart rate. A cup (165 grams) of fresh sliced apricots yields around 2/3 cup (142 ml) of water. Because most individuals do not consume enough water, eating fresh fruit might assist you in meeting your daily requirements. Your blood volume reduces when you’re dehydrated, pushing your heart to work harder to pump blood. Furthermore, being hydrated permits waste products and nutrients to travel freely throughout your body.
Furthermore, apricots are a high source of water and potassium, making them a simple method to restore both water and electrolyte loss after exercise.
6)Blood Health
Non-heme iron may be found in any plant that contains iron, including apricots. The body takes time to absorb this iron. The longer it remains in the system, the greater your chances of avoiding anemia. Take extra vitamin C and the apricots as it is known to help with the absorption of the non-heme iron present. Potassium, a mineral that also functions as an electrolyte, is abundant in apricots.
It’s in charge of transmitting nerve messages as well as controlling muscle contractions and fluid balance. This mineral is found in 181 mg in two apricots. Potassium works closely with salt to maintain fluid equilibrium, so getting enough of it can help you avoid bloating and keep your blood pressure in check.
7)Diet-Friendly
The fruit’s dietary fiber enhances your digestive system, which in turn helps boost your metabolism. When you’re hungry, it’s also advised that you have a few apricots as a snack, especially if you’re on a diet. It fills you up and does not lead to weight gain or obesity. However, after eating the dry form, remember to rinse your mouth. You don’t want your oral health to be harmed by dried fruits because they contain more sugar.
8)Strengthens Bones
Calcium is essential for bone building and growth, and apricots are high in it. It’s also worth noting that calcium is not evenly absorbed and disposed of without adequate potassium in the body. The good news is that the apricot possesses both!
Apricots are a tasty fruit that is high in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. They have several advantages, including better eye, skin, and gastrointestinal health. Whether fresh or dried, apricots are simple to include in yogurt, salads, and main courses.
When you’re accustomed to eating peaches and plums, apricots might be a fun way to switch things up.
