Apricots are nutritious and low-calorie fruits that are popular for their sweet taste and numerous health benefits. One cup of halved apricot contains approximately 74 calories. They are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that are beneficial for your overall health.

Apricots are a great source of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin A, which is essential for good vision, immune function, and skin health. They also contain potassium, iron, and calcium, which are important for maintaining healthy bones and muscles.

In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies on how to include apricots in your diet, the best time to eat them, how to select and store fresh apricots, as well as the possible side effects of eating too many apricots.

What are apricots?

Apricots are small, orange-colored fruits that are closely related to the peach family. They have a sweet and tangy taste and are usually consumed in their fresh or dried form. The fruit has a velvety skin and a hard pit inside, which is not edible. Apricots are a good source of fiber, which helps to regulate digestion and prevent constipation. They are also low in calories and high in antioxidants, making them a great addition to any healthy diet. In addition, they contain a range of important vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, C, E, potassium, and iron. Overall, apricots are a delicious and nutritious fruit that can offer numerous health benefits when consumed as part of a balanced diet.

Nutritional value

Apricots are low in calories but high in essential nutrients. One cup of halved apricots (165 grams) contains the following nutrients: - Calories: 79 - Carbohydrates: 19 grams, Fiber: 3 grams, Protein: 1.5 grams, Fat: 0.4 grams, Vitamin A: 34% of the Daily Value (DV), Vitamin C: 26% of the DV, Potassium: 8% of the DV

Health benefits of apricots

1. Promotes eye health - Apricots contain high levels of vitamin A, which is essential for good eye health. Consuming apricots regularly can help to prevent vision problems such as night blindness and macular degeneration. 2. Boosts immune system - Apricots are a good source of vitamin C, which is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant, which can protect the body against oxidative stress and cellular damage. 3. Improves digestion - Apricots are high in fiber, which can help to improve digestion and prevent constipation. Fiber also helps to regulate blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol levels in the body.

How to include apricots in your diet

1. Eat them fresh - Apricots can be consumed fresh as a snack or added to salads for extra flavor and nutrition. 2. Use them in baked dishes - Apricots can be added to a variety of baked dishes, such as cakes, pies, and tarts. 3. Add them to smoothies - Apricots can be blended with other fruits and vegetables to make delicious and nutritious smoothies.

Best time to eat apricots

Eating apricots in the morning can help to boost your metabolism and provide you with energy throughout the day. Consuming them in the evening can help to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. It is important to note that apricots are high in natural sugar, so it is best to consume them in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.

How to select and store fresh apricots

1. Choose ripe apricots - Look for apricots that are slightly soft to the touch and have a sweet smell. Avoid apricots that are too hard or too soft, as they may be overripe or underripe. 2. Check for blemishes - Make sure that the apricots are free from any bruises or blemishes on the skin. To store apricots, place them in a brown paper bag and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 5 days.

Dried apricots vs. fresh apricots

Dried apricots are made by removing the water content from fresh apricots, which concentrates the nutrients and calories. One cup of dried apricots contains approximately 313 calories, compared to one cup of halved fresh apricots, which contains only 74 calories. While dried apricots are a good source of fiber, potassium, and iron, they are also higher in sugar and calories than fresh apricots. It is important to eat them in moderation.

Possible side effects of apricots

1. Allergic reactions - Some people may be allergic to apricots, which can cause symptoms such as itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. 2. Intestinal discomfort - Eating too many apricots can cause intestinal discomfort, such as nausea, bloating, and diarrhea. 3. Kidney stones - Apricots are high in oxalates, which can contribute to the formation of kidney stones in some people.

Interesting facts about apricots

1. Apricots are a member of the rose family. 2. Over 95% of apricots grown in the United States come from California. 3. The pits of apricots contain a small amount of cyanide, which is toxic in large doses.

Recipes to try with apricots

1. Apricot and Goat Cheese Salad - Toss together mixed greens, chopped apricots, crumbled goat cheese, and walnuts for a refreshing and nutritious salad. 2. Apricot Glazed Chicken - Brush chicken breasts with a mixture of apricot jam, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce, and bake in the oven until done. 3. Apricot Smoothie - Combine apricots, Greek yogurt, almond milk, and honey in a blender and blend until smooth and creamy.