It’s quite common to hear that a good diet consists of a good portion of fruits and vegetables. However, most people don’t go beyond this vague piece of advice. So, we’re here to shed some light on the benefit of one fruit that should be part of your diet based on the benefits it carries—Apricots.

Apricots are scientifically known as Prunus Armeniaca. Many experts claim that apricots were originally cultivated in India; however, others believe it to have originated from Armenia which is where it got its scientific name from. This fleshy fruit is yellowish-orange in color and has a seed in the center which is, of course, inedible.  

It is known that 100 grams of apricots give you 12 % of vitamin A, 12% of vitamin C, and 6% of potassium required by your body. Apricots contain other minerals such as niacin, fiber, magnesium, phosphorus, and copper manganese. And the best part is that you get all this in less than 100 calories.

Now, coming towards the health benefits of apricots, they are countless in number. So let’s look at each one separately below.

Say Goodbye to Constipation

Apricot is a fruit that is rich in fiber and fiber helps with your bowel movements. It bulks up the stool and makes it easier to excrete it from the body. Fiber stimulates the digestive and gastric juices in your body that help breaks down the fatty acids in your food and absorb the essential nutrients.

Moreover, fiber also helps regulate your bowel movements by activating the peristaltic motion in your digestive tract. Hence, due to its laxative properties, apricot is a great fruit for people with constipation and other digestive problems.

Strengthen Your Bones

Another major health benefit of apricots is the strengthening of bones. Calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, and copper are all great minerals for stronger bones and apricots contain all of them. While calcium is the best for the formation and development of your bones, potassium helps absorb the right amount of calcium.

So, if you have osteoporosis or any age-related bone condition, make sure to make apricot is a part of your regular diet.

Care for Your Heart

If you want to protect yourself from any heart disease or you already suffer from one, make apricot your best friend. This fleshy fruit is a great way to stay away from diseases like atherosclerosis, strokes, and heart attacks. A high content of vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber in apricots make it a great contributor towards good cardiovascular health.

Furthermore, minerals like potassium lower blood pressure. It relaxes your blood vessels and arteries. Fiber, on the other hand, removes the excess cholesterol from your vessels and arteries which further reduces the strain on your heart.

Detoxify Your Body

Apricots contain a treasure chest of antioxidants. Ripe, fresh apricots are a great, natural source of antioxidants. One apricot daily helps you get rid of toxins in your body. Vitamin C protects your heart by killing free radicals that damage your cells. So, for a cleaner body, have one apricot daily.

Boost Your Skin Health

Another major health benefit of apricots is healthier skin. A healthy diet containing all the necessary antioxidants can protect you from skin issues like wrinkles, melanoma, and others. The combination of vitamin A, C, E, and phytonutrients ensures healthy skin.

Vitamin C, in particular, provides protection against UV rays and environmental pollutants. Also, it helps build collagen in your skin to give it more strength and elasticity. This is the reason why you may find apricots in the list of ingredients of your skincare products.

Have a Better Metabolism

Fluid levels in your body are dependents on two minerals; sodium and potassium. The high content of potassium in apricots helps maintain the fluid balance in your body. Apricots ensure that energy is evenly distributed throughout your organs and muscles.  

Furthermore, having a balance of electrolytes gives you higher stamina and energy, reduces cramping and regulates the pumping of blood throughout your body.

Lower Your Fever

If you are suffering from fever or know anyone who is, a glass of apricot juice can help lower the temperature. While it detoxifies your organs, apricots are a great source of a balanced nutrient profile with all the necessary minerals, vitamins, calories, and water.

Moreover, apricots have anti-inflammatory properties. They help lower any inflammation or soreness of muscles caused by sickness.

Protect Yourself from Anemia

Apricots are also great for your blood. They contain non-heme iron which takes time to absorb in your body. The longer non-heme iron stays in your body, the further you are away from anemia. Iron, along with copper, helps in the formation of hemoglobin.

Vitamin C ensures better absorption of non-heme iron and apricots contain a high amount of it; this makes it an even better fruit for people with a family history of anemia.

Wrapping Up

Now that we are quite clear on the health benefits of apricots, start adding fresh or dried apricots to your salads, yogurts, and main meals today.