Apricot stone fruit of the family Rosaceae (order Rosales), closely related to peaches, almonds, plums, and cherries. Khaas Food provides the best quality apricot directly imported from the middle east.

Benefits you need to know:

1. Good Source of Vitamin A

Apricots contain Vitamin A, which is also known as retinol. It’s fat-soluble and helps in the enhancement of vision. And it keeps the immune system in check, protecting your skin. Retinol and Beta Carotene (also present in apricots) also reduce the chances of you developing a serious eye-related disorder called Neovascular ARMD–an age-related macular degeneration that causes loss of vision over the years.

2. Rich in Fiber

Whether you eat it dried, or fresh, apricots are an excellent source of dietary fiber. The retinol in apricot is fat-soluble, the fruit dissolves in the body easily, and so that the system easily absorbed the important nutrients. And it breaks down fatty acids fast, which means your digestion is in order. And not only that, the fruit protects you from gastrointestinal concerns by cleaning out the intestines regularly.

3. Good for Your Heart

Given that the fruit is high in fiber content, it helps to reduce the bad cholesterol content in the body, and that means your heart is protected. And at the same time, it increases good cholesterol. Plus the potassium content in the fruit balances the electrolyte levels in our system, keeping our heart muscles in order. All you have to do is eat one or two fresh apricots every day, or a handful of dried ones.

4. Treasure Chest of Antioxidants

Ripe apricots are natural sources of antioxidants. When consumed daily, it helps the body to get rid of toxins that we tend to collect over time. Antioxidants in turn also kill free radicals that damage our cells.

5. Good for Your Blood

Any plant product that contains iron has non-heme iron, and that includes apricot. This type of iron takes its time to be absorbed by the body, and the longer it stays in the system, the better your chances of preventing anemia. It’s recommended that you take some vitamin C along with it to ensure better absorption of the non-heme iron.

6. Good for the Skin

The combination of Vitamin C, A, and phytonutrients ensures good skin. And did you know that the antioxidants in the apricot also slow the aging process? So apart from a good skincare regime, don’t forget to eat some apricots every day.

7. It’s Diet-Friendly

The dietary fiber in the fruit improves your digestive system, which helps to increase your metabolism. And it’s often recommended that you eat a few apricots as a snack when you’re feeling peckish, especially if you’re on a diet. It fills you up but doesn’t add unnecessary calories. However, remember to rinse your mouth after you eat the dried version. Dried fruits contain more sugar, and you don’t want that to affect your dental health.

8. It Strengthens Your Bones

Calcium is much required in the formation and development of bones, and apricot has lots of it. It’s also interesting to note is that without enough potassium in the body, it is difficult to absorb and dispose of calcium uniformly. And the good news is that the apricot has both of them!

Apricot Nutrition Value

According to the United States Department of Agriculture, a 100-gram serving of apricot has 48 calories, 1.40 grams protein, 0.39 grams fat, 11.12 grams carbs, 2 grams fiber, and 9.20 grams of sugar.

How to Add Apricots to Your Diet

Like most tasty fruits, we can eat the apricot in multiple ways. The dried and the fresh version are the easiest. But you could also chop apricots up and add them to your morning cereal. You can even make a blend with yogurt and make a dip or a spread for bread (if you don’t mind a sweetish sandwich that is). We also used liberally apricots in jams and preserves, and if you can figure out a recipe that uses little or no sugar, you can eat it without feeling too guilty.

Apricot tarts, pies, crumbles, and cakes are popular, but did you know you could also use apricot to add extra flavor (and health of course) to your salad? The fruit goes well with green leaves, feta, and almonds. And all you need to finish the salad is a little balsamic dressing! It is easier to store dried apricots, as long as you don’t keep them under too much light, but fresh apricots should consume quickly as the skin might get wrinkled, and the fruit will lose its efficacy.