New Delhi: Apricots are a fruit with a ton of health benefits and have a fascinating history from their richness in vitamins and minerals. Apricots have been a valued food for so long that just where and when they were first domesticated are facts lost in time.
The scientific name Prunus Armeniaca links them to Armenia where they have certainly been grown for centuries and where fifty varieties are produced today. They were also a major crop in ancient Persia (modern Iran) and while some authorities insist their cultivation history begins in India as long ago as 3000 BC others argue it all began in China.
- Good Source of Vitamin A
Apricots are packed with Vitamin A, which is also known as retinol. It’s fat soluble, and helps in the enhancement of vision, among other things. And it keeps the immune system in check, protecting your skin in the process. Retinol and Beta Carotene (also present in apricots) also reduces the chances of you developing a serious eye-related disorder called Neovascular ARMD – an age-related macular degeneration that causes loss of vision over the years.
- Good Source of Vitamin A
Apricots are packed with Vitamin A, which is also known as retinol. It’s fat-soluble, and helps in the enhancement of vision, among other things. And it keeps the immune system in check, protecting your skin in the process. Retinol and Beta Carotene (also present in apricots) also reduce the chances of you developing a serious eye-related disorder called Neovascular ARMD – an age-related macular degeneration that causes loss of vision over the years.
- Rich in Fiber
Whether you eat it dried, or fresh, apricots are a good source of dietary fiber. Given that the retinol in apricot is fat soluble, the fruit dissolves in the body easily, and the important nutrients are easily absorbed by the system. And it breaks down fatty acids fast, which means your digestion is in order. And not only that, the fruit protects you from gastrointestinal concerns by cleaning out the intestines regularly.
- Good for Your Heart
Given that the fruit is high on fiber content, it helps to reduce the bad cholesterol content in the body, and that means your heart is protected. And at the same time, it increases good cholesterol. Plus the potassium content in the fruit balances the electrolyte levels in our system, keeping our heart muscles in order. All you have to do is eat one or two fresh apricots every day, or a handful of dried ones.
- Treasure Chest of Antioxidants
Ripe apricots are natural sources of antioxidants. When consumed daily, it helps the body to get rid of toxins that we tend to collect over time. Antioxidants in turn also kill free radicals that damage our cells.
- Good for Your Blood
Any plant product that contains iron has non-heme iron, and that includes apricot. This type of iron takes its time to be absorbed by the body, and the longer it stays in the system, the better your chances in preventing anemia. It’s recommended that you take some vitamin C along with it to ensure better absorption of the non-heme iron.
- Good for the Skin
The combination of Vitamin C, A, and phytonutrients ensures good skin. And did you know that the antioxidants in the apricot also slow the ageing process? So apart from a good skincare regime, don’t forget to eat some apricots every day.
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