Why apricots are good for you

Vitamin A is well-known to help with acne and other skin problems, while the iron in apricots is good news for those with anemia. At less than calories per fruit, and no fat or cholesterol, apricots are a great healthy snack to enjoy during the summer months.

The Mathison family owns and operates Stemilt Growers, and proudly grows, packs, and ships the best apples, pears, cherries, and summer fruits for you and your family to enjoy. Apples Cherries Pears Summer Fruit. Apples Pears Cherries Summer Fruit. Back To TOC. The soluble fiber in the fruit promotes healthy bowel movement as it adds bulk to the stools. The fiber also breaks down the fatty acids fast — and this enhances digestion. The fiber in the fruit also treats other digestive issues like constipation and bloating.

Apricots are quite low in calories and carbs one fruit contains just 17 calories and 4 grams of carbs — and this is good news for diabetics. They can very well be a part of a diabetes diet. And the fiber they contain can regulate blood sugar levels. The fruit is also rich in vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant that improves blood sugar levels. According to a Spanish study, nuts and dried fruits make for a healthy addition to a diabetes diet. Apricots, being dried fruits, undoubtedly serve this purpose 1.

Not just the fruit, but the seeds have also been found to be effective in relieving inflammation. In fact, one animal study states how apricot seed oil extract protected against ulcerative colitis, which is an inflammatory bowel disease 2. According to a report by the Arthritis Foundation, apricots are rich in beta-cryptoxanthin, a chemical that can prevent osteoarthritis and other inflammatory forms of arthritis 3.

The magnesium in the fruit can also ease inflammatory pain. Regular fruit intake has been linked to a reduced risk of vision loss. But more importantly, apricots are rich in carotenoids and xanthophylls — nutrients that researchers believe can prevent age-related vision ailments.

And they also contain vitamin A, another important nutrient for the eyes. Also called retinol, it prevents age-related macular degeneration. As per studies, topical application of apricot kernel extract can reduce dry eyes by stimulating tear production 4. As per studies, apricots can protect against liver damage and ease the symptoms of fatty liver disease accumulation of fat in the liver 5.

More interestingly, organic apricots were found to be effective in promoting liver regeneration 6. The potassium in the fruit can lower blood pressure levels and can hence prevent heart attacks. And the fiber in the fruit lowers cholesterol levels and prevents heart-related diseases like atherosclerosis. The fiber makes it obvious — it can keep us full for long periods, and this definitely contributes to healthy weight loss.

There is another bit of science attached to this — the nutrients in apricots stimulate certain brain cells called tanycytes that make us feel full and control our appetite. Apricots are also rich in calcium, the mineral important for bone development and health. More importantly, potassium is also important for the proper absorption and uniform distribution of calcium — and apricots are rich in potassium too. Studies also show that apricots can reverse bone loss and even alter bone metabolism in postmenopausal women 7.

Apricots are also good sources of iron, which helps treat anemia. Iron improves hemoglobin production, and this enhances the quality of blood as well. Apricots are highly nutritious, and this is reason enough to consume them during pregnancy. They are also rich in iron and copper, two particularly important nutrients during pregnancy.

They help prevent fatal consequences during pregnancy. However, there is very little research done in this regard. Hence, we advise you to stay away from apricots during pregnancy and consult your doctor first.

Though there is very less research on this, some sources suggest that pouring two to three drops of apricot oil in the affected ear can relieve the pain. These include asthma, and cold and flu. Summary Apricots are low in calories and fat while also an excellent source of vitamins A and C.

High in antioxidants. Summary Apricots contain numerous antioxidants, most notably flavonoids. They help protect your body from oxidative stress, which is linked to many chronic diseases. May promote eye health. Summary Apricots are an excellent source of beta carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamins C and E.

These nutrients protect your eyes against damage. May boost skin health. While you should still use sunscreen, munching on apricots may offer additional protection. Summary Apricots are naturally high in antioxidants, which guard against environmental damage from sunlight, pollution, and cigarette smoke. These compounds may benefit your skin by lowering your risk of wrinkles and sunburn.

May promote gut health. Apricots may promote gut health. Summary Apricots are a good source of soluble fiber, which feeds your healthy gut bacteria and may boost digestive health. High in potassium.

Summary Potassium aids nerve signaling, muscle contractions, and fluid balance. Eating potassium-rich foods, such as apricots, may help prevent high blood pressure and reduce your risk of stroke. Very hydrating. Summary Apricots are naturally high in water, which is important for staying hydrated.

Proper hydration is vital for several aspects of health, including blood pressure and heart rate. May protect your liver. Summary In two rat studies, apricots were found to protect the liver from oxidative stress caused by the ingestion of alcohol. Yet, human studies are needed. Easy to add to your diet. Summary Both fresh and dried apricots are widely available. You can eat them on their own or add them to your favorite dishes, sides, or desserts.

The bottom line. Fresh or dried, apricots are easy to add to yogurt, salads, and main meals. Read this next. Dried Fruit: Good or Bad? Medically reviewed by Natalie Butler, R. The Sweet Truth.