Apricots health benefits

Information on Apricots

Apricots are a fruit characterized by a velvety texture golden skin and a round shape. They are very similar to peaches but they tend to be slightly smaller. They are actually related to plums and peaches and are very beneficial for the human body as they provide it with various types of essential nutrients. The taste of apricots can be described as sweet but can also include a slight pinch of tartness. The pits of apricots are stone and they are used for the extraction of apricot kernel oil. Apricots grow on a tree which can be up to thirteen meters in height. Their botanical name is prunus armeniaca. The fruits get harvested during the early portions of summer.

Apricot Nutrition

Apricots are very beneficial for the human body as they provides it with various essential nutrients. An apricot which weighs 40 grams contains 17 calories, 914.2 International Units of vitamin A, 7 milligrams of phosphorus, 4 grams of carbohydrates, 3 milligrams of magnesium, 0.5 grams of proteins, 104 milligrams of potassium, 3 grams of sugar, 1.2 micrograms of vitamin K, 1 gram of dietary fiber, 3 micrograms of folate, 1 gram of fat and 544.95 micrograms of beta carotene. It is also an excellent source of calcium, vitamin C and lycopene. Apricots do not contain any cholesterol.

Health Benefits of Apricots

Apricots are commonly consumed in their raw, fresh form but they are also quite popular in their dried form as well. Fresh apricots are seasonal, while their dried counterparts are available throughout the entire year. Dried apricots provide more health benefits as all the nutrients are much more concentrated, but they are also very rich in calories and quite often may contain certain preservatives which may be harmful. Apricots may be of great help for all those who suffer from constipation and similar gastrointestinal problems such as intestinal worms and indigestion. They are also efficient in the prevention of macular degeneration and Alzheimer’s disease. Apricots are known for their potent antioxidant properties so they are very efficient in reducing the risk of heart disease and different types of cancer as well as fighting free radicals. Apricots can help in, the prevention and treatment of certain other types of medical conditions such as anemia, bronchitis, tuberculosis and asthma.