Written By Sam Henselijn
Learn about 5 surprising health benefits of dried apricots. First, apricots are one of the best foods on the planet. Second, if you add them to your diet, apricots can improve your health. Read on to learn more about dried apricots’ 5 surprising health benefits. Also, learn how to get started on improving your health today!
But first, let’s learn some crucial details about dried apricots.
How are apricots grown?
Dried apricots are grown on trees like other stone fruits like
peaches and plums. Dried apricot trees can take up a lot of space. The fruit is hand-picked at maturity. Then, cut the leaves to make way for drying or sun-drying.
It’s also common for apricots to have pieces removed from them during drying to help them last longer. Also, during processing, they are frequently split from less perishable ones.
What is the process of drying apricots?
Air drying is a more straightforward method that extracts water from within the flesh through evaporation. (often through exposure to sunlight). The remaining dried meat is firm, chewy, and sweet-tasting, with a texture similar to that of a raisin.
The 5 surprising health benefits of dried apricots
Below are five excellent health benefits of dried apricots you should know today. Read on!
1. Full of vitamins and nutrients
It’s easy to see why people are crazy about these wrinkly dried
fruits. Dried apricot nutrition has abundant vitamins and nutrients to help you meet your daily fruit requirements. Fresh apricots are healthy, too, but their vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber become exceptionally concentrated when apricots are dried.
Not only are they tasty and nutritious, but dried apricots can also be delicious in recipes like trail mix bars or sprinkled on top of salads for a bit of texture.
2. Lowers cholesterol
Dried apricot has anti-cholesterol effects; servings of dried apricots can lower bad cholesterol. In addition, dried apricots are a protective diet for cardiovascular disease.
Research showed that a high fiber level in dried apricots helps lower cholesterol and helps the digestion process. High fiber also helps you not to get fat. In addition, dietary fibers from dried fruit may help reduce your risk of heart disease. It achieves this by lowering blood cholesterol levels and by decreasing your risk of obesity.
3. Improve Bone Mineral Density
Adequate calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D levels are essential for strong bones. Surprisingly, dried apricots contain some of these components.
One cup of dried apricots contains 20 percent and 13 percent of adults’ daily calcium and magnesium requirements, respectively. Dried apricots also contain vitamin D; 100 grams have 439 IU—almost 70 percent of what you need daily!
4. Rich in Antioxidants
Apricots are abundant in antioxidants like beta carotene and
other antioxidant-rich vitamins. Apricots also contain flavonoids, an antioxidant associated with reducing the risk of diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.
Flavonoids operate by neutralizing free radicals in our bodies, which are responsible for oxidative stress and cell damage. Flavonoids may also help reduce inflammation.
Including dried apricots in our regular meals may help offer a healthy, natural supply of these essential compounds.
5. Assist in Weight Loss
A high-fiber food, dried apricot packs a punch for calorie control. The fruit contains 25 grams of fiber per 100-gram serving. This implies that it takes up space in your stomach and slows digestion, leaving you feeling fuller for longer.
It also curbs hunger pangs by helping blood sugar stabilize at an even level. This makes it easier to lose weight without starving yourself or exercising more than necessary. Plus, nutrients in dried apricots give your body energy and ensure you don’t look tired or lifeless. This completes the list of 5 Health Benefits of Dried Apricots.
They are low in fat (1 g) but rich sources of iron, magnesium, and manganese. These are important nutrients involved in energy production.
So, if you’re trying to lose weight, these dried apricots are the ideal snack for you.
Check out a bag of our ultimate dried apricots. Our apricots are an excellent nutritious snack for leading an active lifestyle. These apricots are sweeter and more delicious than the smaller type. With our apricots, you’ll get more out of each mouthful.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it! These are some surprising health benefits of dried apricots. When looking for a filling and delicious snack, dried apricots are an excellent choice.
They come in many different varieties, so there’s sure to be one you like. They make a great addition to any diet with all their health benefits. So don’t delay any moment if you haven’t added them to your grocery list! Our dried apricots are available year-round and provide a sweet snack and extra vitamins. Try them today!
Fun Facts about Dried Apricots
Dried apricots not only tantalize taste buds but also offer intriguing facts. Originating from China over 4,000 years ago, these golden-hued treats made their way along the Silk Road. With roots in the Persian word “zar,” meaning yellow, apricots are rich in beta-carotene, promoting eye health. The drying process intensifies their natural sweetness, and despite being calorie-dense, they boast essential nutrients like potassium and iron. Apricots are often linked to ancient traditions and are believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. Today, they continue to captivate with their delightful flavor and a history steeped in cultural significance.
FAQs on the 5 Surprising Health Benefits of Dried Apricots
How many dried apricots should you eat a day?
The recommended daily intake of dried apricots can vary based on individual dietary needs and overall health. Dried apricots are nutritious but also calorie-dense due to their concentrated sugars. As a general guideline, consuming around 5 to 6 dried apricots (approximately 1/4 to 1/3 cup) daily can provide beneficial nutrients without excessive calorie intake. However, it’s essential to consider your overall diet and individual health conditions. If you have specific dietary concerns or health issues, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice.
Are dried apricots anti-inflammatory?
Dried apricots contain certain compounds, such as polyphenols and antioxidants, that may have anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds can help counteract oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. However, it’s important to note that the overall impact of dried apricots on inflammation is part of a broader diet and lifestyle context.
Including various anti-inflammatory foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts, in your diet can contribute to overall well-being. Dried apricots can be a nutritious addition to such a diet. However, for specific health concerns or conditions, it’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice.
Can dried apricots aid in digestion and gut health?
Yes, dried apricots can aid digestion and promote gut health. They contain dietary fiber, which supports regular bowel movements and helps maintain a healthy digestive system when consumed as part of a balanced diet. (always consult your doctor for the best advice)
How do dried apricots compare to fresh apricots in terms of nutrition?
Due to water removal, dry apricots are more concentrated in sugar and calories than fresh ones. While they retain essential nutrients, drying alters the nutritional content, impacting factors like fiber and vitamin C levels.
Can dried apricots be beneficial for skin health?
Yes, dried apricots can be beneficial for skin health. They contain vitamins A and E, antioxidants, and beta-carotene, contributing to skin elasticity and protection against oxidative damage. Including them in a balanced diet may promote overall skin well-being.
Are dried apricots a healthy snack for weight management?
Dried apricots can be part of a healthy snack for weight management when consumed in moderation. While they offer essential nutrients, they are calorie-dense due to concentrated sugars, so portion control is crucial in a balanced diet.
Are dried apricots a good source of antioxidants?
Yes, dried apricots are a good source of antioxidants. They contain compounds such as beta-carotene and vitamins A and E, which help neutralize free radicals and protect cells from oxidative stress, contributing to overall health and well-being.
Sam Henselijn Author’s Biography – Meet L’Orenta Nuts CEO
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