2016-01-31
Joybynature.com Team
Jan
31

Image Source: Mercucita

Apricots are native to China, but the United States grows 90 percent of the world's apricots, according to Ann Henderson and Charlotte Brennand from the Utah State University Extension. These fruits fulfill a wide range of nutritional needs and are easy to pack as snacks, whether fresh or dried apricots.

Apricots are a good source of vitamin A, also known as retinol. This is a fat-soluble vitamin that aids in cellular differentiation, vision and healthy fetal development. It also is involved in immune-system functioning and keeping the skin and mucous membranes healthy. Vitamin A may also help treat acne and skin problems, promote healthy vision, reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration and maintain bone strength. It may also be important in neurological functioning. Apricots are a good source of dietary fiber, something your body needs to help with good intestinal function, and may help reduce blood pressure.

The health benefits of apricot include its ability to treat indigestion, constipation, earaches, fevers, skin diseases, cancer and anemia. Apricot oil is useful for treating strained muscles and wounds. It is also believed that apricot is good for skin care, especially for women. This is why you find it added in various cosmetics. Furthermore, apricots have the ability to improve heart health, reduce cholesterol levels, prevent the deterioration of vision, help you to lose weight, treat respiratory conditions, boost bone strength, and maintain electrolyte balance in the body.

  1. Cure Constipation

 Apricots are rich in fiber and are therefore good for smooth bowel movements. It is often recommended to patients who regularly suffer from constipation due to its laxative properties. Fiber is a way to bulk up the stool. In this way, it becomes easier to transport through the bowels to its eventual excretion from the body. Fiber stimulates the gastric and digestive juices that help absorb the nutrients and break down the food for easier processing. Furthermore, fiber also activates the peristaltic motion of the digestive tract, and those smooth muscle movements are what keep your bowel movements regulated.

  1. Rich Source Of Antioxidants

Apricots when ripened naturally are a rich source of antioxidants. Antioxidants are required by the body to aid the body’s natural functioning. Higher the amount of antioxidants in the body,  higher is the rate of elimination of toxins from it. Toxins are harmful substances that accumulate in the intestines and the digestive tract. Antioxidants also get rid of free radicals produced naturally in the body on exposure to oxygen. Free radicals if not scavenged regularly, can damage the body on cellular level.  Apricots have the capacity to increase the production of antioxidants.

  1. Healthy For Your Heart

The high amount of soluble fibers is also beneficial to the heart health. How are the two related? The high fiber content is useful in reducing the LDL or bad cholesterol content in the body, thus lowering your risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. At the same time, it also helps you increase the levels of HDL or good cholesterol. Consuming just half a cup of apricots every day is useful and beneficial to the health of your heart.

  1. Enhance Bone Health

 Apricots have either significant or moderate amounts of all the minerals necessary for healthy bone growth. Calcium, phosphorous, manganese, iron, and copper all play a certain role in the creation of bone matter. Therefore, eating apricots can ensure the healthy growth and development of your bones, as well as preventing various age-related conditions, including osteoporosis.

  1. Cure Skin Disorders

Apricot oil is good for skin care. It is quickly absorbed by the skin and does not keep the skin oily after it is applied. Apricots are not just useful for maintaining the smooth and shiny appearance of the skin; it also aids in treating a number of skin diseases including eczema, itching, scabies, and a number of other irritating conditions. This is specifically due to the antioxidant compounds found within apricots. Not only does it have a healthy amount of vitamin A (60% of your daily requirement per serving), which has long been associated with healthier skin, but the antioxidants in apricots protect the skin from the effects of free radicals, which can lead to skin deterioration and signs of premature aging.

So include these amazingly tasty apricots and enrich your diet with amazing benefits.

 

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