Apricot is one of the delicious fruit but it is often unnoticed in favor of other common fruit such as apple, grapes, banana and orange. But in reality it is as healthy as those other fruits. They are available in both forms dried as well as fresh. Dried apricots are available throughout the year while fresh are available in summer season only. Apricot was first originated in Armenia and later arrived in Europe by Greek people who used to call them as “golden eggs of the sun.” Today, it is harvested around all countries in the world. There are different varieties of apricot like apple and oranges but mostly found in one or two types only depending on location.
Apricot belongs to Rosaceae family and mostly resembles to peach, pear, apple and plum. It is scientifically known by Prunus armenia. Apricot is basically small in size and round in shape. It is not too juicy but absolutely smooth and sweet. It is found in golden orange color. It contains sweet tart taste and flavor is almost musky. Turkey, Iran, Italy, Algeria, Pakistan, France and Japan are some of the largest apricot producer countries in the world. Apricot is use for various culinary purposes. It is used as an ingredient in various sweet and savory recipes. Sauce and jams made with apricot are famous in international cuisines. Besides that cake, biscuits and puddings are made with apricot flavor. Apricot juice is most commonly served in various cuisines.
Most of us have a tendency to buy apple, orange, banana and grapes only. It happens due to lack of knowledge about the nutrients and health benefits of consuming apricot. It contains several valuable nutrients as similar to other fruits which are extremely beneficial for strong health. It is especially enriched with Vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, beta carotene and potassium. Besides that it contains an excellent source of B-complex group of vitamins and minerals like iron, zinc and manganese. It contains very low calorie as compare to other fruits. 100 gram of apricot contains only 50 calorie. So, it is good diet supplement. As this fruits is loaded with several essential mineral, vitamins, dietary fiber and antioxidant, it offers numerous health benefits which are mentioned below.
AMAZING HEALTH BENEFITS OF EATING APRICOT:-
1) Prevent Anemia:-
Anemia usually occurs due to lack of healthy red blood cells and hemoglobin. Apricot contains minerals like iron and copper in large quantity. Iron plays a key role in the formation of blood. Deficiency of iron may lead to anemia. So, having a diet including apricot can be a great option to reduce the risk of anemia. In addition, regular consumption of large quantities of apricot can be beneficial in the production of hemoglobin, because it is essential to increase after the period, particularly in women with heavy flow.
2) Reduce risk of cancer:-
Apricot is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C and lycopene. Antioxidant fights against free radicals and protects body and also reduces risk of many types of cancer. Free radicals take place in body due to addiction of smoking, UV rays and pollution. Cancer cells develop in body since free radical interferes with normal cells which bring unusual changes in DNA of the cells. Research has proven that presence of vitamin C in apricot reduce risk of lungs and esophagus larynx. In addition, lycopene is effective in preventing prostate, busts and other kinds of cancer.
3) Reduce heart diseases:-
Apricot contains fiber in large quantity which diminishes bad cholesterol and reduces risk of arteries block which consequently reduce the risk heart attack and promote heart health. Studies indicate that presence of vitamin C in apricot reduce risk of cardiovascular disease. Vitamin C has less risk to heart disease. Hence, apricot is good for heart health.
4) Excellent for eyes:-
One of the determinants significant of apricot is that it improves eye vision. It contains great source of beta carotene. Beta carotene is essential to improve eye vision. Deficiency of beta carotene may lead to macular degeneration. In this disease people lost their vision (eyesight). This disease mostly occurs in adults. So, apricot can be a great option to prevent macular degeneration. Besides that it also reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
5) Improves digestive ability:-
One of the major benefits of apricot is that it improves digestion. Apricot is a rich source of dietary fiber which increases metabolism and promote digestion. Research indicate that having consumption of apricot before meal stimulate digestion because of its alkaline effect to liquidate acids.
6) Relieves from constipation:-
Another major determinant benefit of apricot is that it gives relieve from constipation. High content of fiber present in apricot treat constipation and also destroy intestinal worms. It also maintains smooth functioning of bowel movement in those suffering from constipation.
6) Beneficial in weight loss:-
Apricot plays a vital role in weight loss treatment. Because it contains low calorie and rich source of dietary fiber. Combination of both is essential to lose weight. Hence, it acts as a natural remedy in weight loss treatment. Daily consumption of apricot is fundamental to lose weight.
7) Gives younger and glowing skin:-
Apricot is an excellent source of antioxidant which improves skin health. It reduces the risk of early ageing and keeps skin free from rashes and wrinkles. Presence of vitamin A in apricot is beneficial in acne and other skin problems. In addition, apricot oil is effective in making smooth and glowing skin. It also plays a crucial role in treating various skin diseases like scabies and eczema. Apricot oil works effectively in ear pain as well.
8) Improves bone density:-
Apricot contains rich source of mineral like potassium, calcium, phosphorous and manganese. 40 grams of apricot contains 104mg potassium, phosphorous 7mg and 3mg of magnesium which helps in formation and development of strong bones. It prevents from other bone related problems like bone thinning and bone cracking. Hence, having apricot in diet is a good option to keep bone strong and healthy.
9) Other benefits:-
• Reduces risk of tuberculosis, asthma and bronchitis.
• Acts as electrolytes and maintain electrolyte level in balance.
• Prevent hypertension.