Are you looking for a healthy and delicious snack option that won't pack on the calories? Look no further than dried apricots! With only 90 calories in a single serving, they make for a satisfying and guilt-free snack. But that's not all - there are plenty of health benefits to be had from apricots as well.
Dried apricots are a great source of fiber, vitamin A, and potassium. They are also packed with antioxidants that help protect your cells against damage from free radicals. In fact, just one serving of dried apricots provides half of your daily recommended intake of vitamin A.
In this article, we'll explore some of the top health benefits of dried apricots, as well as how you can easily incorporate them into your daily diet.
Health Benefits of Dried Apricots You Should Know
Besides being a tasty snack, dried apricots are also incredibly good for your health. Here are just a few of the many benefits of adding apricots to your diet:
- Improved digestion and gut health thanks to high levels of dietary fiber
- Better regulated blood sugar levels due to the fruit's low glycemic index
- A natural way to boost your iron levels - important for people with anemia or iron-deficiency
- Can be used as a natural remedy for constipation and other digestive issues
- Great for your skin health, thanks to high levels of vitamin A
- Loaded with antioxidants that help protect your cells from damage
Dried Apricots Are Packed with Fiber for a Healthy Gut
If you're looking for a tasty way to add more fiber to your diet, dried apricots are an excellent choice. With 4 grams of fiber per serving, they help promote healthy digestion and regularity in your bowel movements. Fiber is essential for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, which is the collection of bacteria and other microorganisms in your digestive system that play a crucial role in your overall health. A diet high in fiber has been linked to a lower risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
Apricots Can Help Regulate Your Blood Sugar
Dried apricots have a low glycemic index, meaning they cause a slower and more gradual rise in your blood sugar levels compared to high-glycemic foods like white bread or candy. By regulating your blood sugar levels, apricots can help prevent spikes and crashes in your energy levels and reduce your risk of developing diabetes. Plus, they make for a great snack option for people with diabetes or those looking to manage their blood sugar levels.
Dried Apricots Make a Great Snack for Weight Watchers
If you're trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight, dried apricots are a perfect snack option. With just 90 calories per serving, they provide a satisfying and filling snack without packing on the pounds. Plus, apricots are low in fat and high in fiber, meaning they'll keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer. This can help prevent overeating and snacking on unhealthy foods later in the day.
Dried Apricots Can Help Boost Your Iron Levels
Iron is an important mineral that plays a vital role in your body. It's responsible for producing hemoglobin, the protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout your body. If you have low iron levels, you can experience symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. Dried apricots are a great way to boost your iron intake naturally. With 1.4 milligrams of iron per serving, they provide a healthy dose of this essential mineral.
Dried Apricots Can Be a Natural Remedy for Constipation
Constipation can be an uncomfortable and even painful condition. It occurs when your bowel movements become infrequent or difficult to pass. Fortunately, there are many natural remedies you can try, including dried apricots. Dried apricots are high in fiber, which helps soften your stool and make it easier to pass. Plus, they contain a natural laxative called sorbitol that can help stimulate bowel movements.
Dried Apricots Can Benefit Your Skin Health
Vitamin A is an essential nutrient for keeping your skin healthy and glowing. It plays a crucial role in cell growth and repair, and helps protect your skin from damage caused by UV rays and environmental toxins. Dried apricots are loaded with vitamin A - in fact, just one serving provides 40% of your daily recommended intake. Plus, they contain other antioxidants that help prevent premature aging and keep your skin looking youthful.
Dried Apricots Are Rich in Antioxidants for Better Health
Antioxidants are compounds that help protect your cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals. They have been linked to a lower risk of many chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer's. Dried apricots are a great source of antioxidants, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and beta-carotene. Eating a diet high in antioxidants can help protect your cells from damage and improve your overall health.
Dried Apricots Are a Low-Calorie Nutritious Snack
If you're looking for a healthy and satisfying snack option, it's hard to beat dried apricots. With only 90 calories per serving, they provide a nutritious and low-calorie snack that won't weigh you down or make you feel guilty. Plus, they're packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals that help support your overall health and wellbeing.
How to Incorporate Dried Apricots into Your Daily Diet
Looking for ways to incorporate dried apricots into your daily diet? Here are a few simple ideas to get you started:
- Snack on a handful of apricots as a midday pick-me-up
- Add chopped apricots to your morning oatmeal or yogurt
- Mix dried apricots into a trail mix with nuts and seeds
- Chop up apricots and add them to your favorite salad for a burst of sweetness
- Use pureed apricots as a natural sweetener in baking recipes
"Dried apricots are a healthy and delicious snack option that can benefit your gut health, blood sugar levels, iron levels, skin health, and more."
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Dried Apricots
1. How many dried apricots equal one serving?
Generally, 5-6 pieces of dried apricots equal one serving size, which would be approximately 90 calories. However, it's important to check the serving size on the package as it may vary depending on the brand.
2. What are the benefits of eating dried apricots?
Dried apricots are a rich source of dietary fiber, vitamins (A, C, E, K), and minerals (potassium, iron, calcium, magnesium). They are also packed with antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, which can support overall health, improve digestion, and boost the immune system.
3. Are there any risks associated with eating dried apricots?
Dried apricots are generally safe to eat in moderation. However, they are high in sugar and calories, so those watching their weight or blood sugar levels should consume them in small amounts. In some cases, people with sulfite allergies may experience adverse reactions to sulfites that are often used as a preservative in dried apricots.
4. Can dried apricots be used in cooking and baking?
Yes, dried apricots can be a delicious and nutritious addition to a variety of recipes, including cakes, muffins, salads, and stews. They can also be used to make jams, chutneys, and sauces.
5. How should I store dried apricots?
Dried apricots should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. They can also be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for longer shelf life. Be sure to check the expiration date on the package and discard any dried apricots that appear moldy, discolored, or have an off-smell or taste.