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One of the most versatile fruits, the yellowish-orange apricot is a fleshy fruit with tiny hairs on the outer skin lending it a soft fleshy texture. Considered to be one of the healthiest fruit, apricots are known for their delicious taste and are cultivated in the northern hills of India.
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE
Packed with several benefits, apricots are a rich source of nutrients, vitamins, and minerals. 100 grams of the fruit gives you 12% of vitamin C, 12% of vitamin A and 6% of potassium all under 50 calories. Apricots are consumed both in their fresh and dried forms and are also used in making pastries and jams.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF APRICOTS
1 . Improve Eye Sight
-Vitamin A and Beta Carotene present in apricots strengthens the optic nerves of the eyes and protects them from blindness and other serious eye related disorders. Consuming 2 to 3 servings of Apricots in a day has proved to be beneficial in preventing age-related macular degeneration.
2 . Promote Heart Health
-High in fiber content, it helps in reducing the bad cholesterol content in the body, thereby increasing the good cholesterol level and protecting the heart. Potassium in the fruit helps balance the electrolyte levels in our system and helps to keep our heart muscles strong.
3 . Prevent Anaemia
-Abundant in iron, apricots play an important role in the formation of blood thereby improving the blood and energy flow. Small amounts of copper present in them, make it easier for the body to absorb iron. Regular consumption of apricots helps in the production of hemoglobin that can benefit women during heavy menstrual flow.
4 . Fight Constipation
Rich in pectin and cellulose that act as a milk laxative, apricots helps in the treatment of constipation. High in fiber and fat-soluble nutrients, which is vital for colon health, it aids digestion and also breaks down fatty acids quickly keeping your digestion in order.
5 . Build Up Bones
Storehouse of essential minerals such as calcium, potassium, iron, copper and manganese, apricots have been found to be beneficial for healthy growth and development of bones.