Apricots: A nutrient-packed powerhouse for your health | Fusion - WeRIndia

As a close relative to peaches, nectarines, plums, and cherries, apricots (prunus armeniaca) emerge as small stone fruits with velvety skin ranging from pale yellow to deep orange.

Packed with a unique flavour, distinct from peaches or nectarines, their individual balance of sweetness and acidity sets them apart.

These delectable fruits, also known as the Armenian plum, are characterized by a fleshy fruit housing a central stone containing the seed.

Predominantly grown in warm climates, with major suppliers including Spain, France, Turkey etc., the last decade has witnessed a doubling of UK apricot growers, mainly in Kent and the Isle of Wight.

Apricots prove incredibly versatile, seamlessly fitting into savoury dishes like tagines and sweet treats such as tarts and crumbles.

Apricots are loaded with vitamins like C and minerals like potassium. One serving, roughly three apricots, contributes to your daily five-a-day goal.

Apricot is known as Nature’s Powerhouse. Here are the top five health benefits of apricots:

• Apricots boast high concentrations of active plant chemicals, acting as defence mechanisms that support our immune system, and heart, and potentially protect against certain cancers.
• Loaded with protective plant compounds and antioxidant nutrients, apricots combat heart disease and contribute soluble fibre to lower LDL cholesterol.
• The deep yellow or orange flesh indicates a rich carotenoid content, essential for protecting the eyes and delaying age-related macular degeneration.
• Carotenoids in apricots play a crucial role in skin health, protecting against the ageing effects of environmental factors like UV light, pollution, and smoking.
• Apricots, rich in dietary fibre and sorbitol, prevent constipation and maintain normal gastric transit, promoting digestive well-being.

Apart from the above, these nutrient-packed gems also aid in managing high blood pressure and protecting the liver.

In addition, they also combat cancer and offer relief from menopausal symptoms through their phyto-oestrogenic properties.

Embrace apricots as a delicious and health-boosting addition to your daily diet.

Image from Pxhere (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image Reference: https://pxhere.com/en/photo/592261