Apricots are small, golden orange fruits that are one of the first signs of summer. They have velvety skin and flesh similar to a small peach. They are not too juicy but definitely smooth and sweet and are part of many smoothie recipes. Someone may think of the flavor as being somewhere between a peach and a plum, as they are closely related.
Apricots are full of beta-carotene and a good source of fiber, having a health benefits including preventing constipation and digestive conditions. A healthy, whole foods diet should include apricots an addition to your daily fiber intake.
Nutrients in apricots can help protect the heart and eyes, as well as provide the disease-fighting effects of fiber. The high beta-carotene and lycopene activity of apricots makes them important heart health foods. Both beta-carotene and lycopene protect cholesterol from oxidation, which may help prevent heart diseases.
Apricots are a very good source of vitamin C and an excellent source of vitamin A that promote good vision. Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant that fights free radical damage to cells and tissues. Free radical damage can injure the eyes’ lenses.
Apricots are also good source of dietary fiber and potassium. They also contain phytochemicals called carotenoids, compounds that give red, orange and yellow colors to fruits and vegetables. The powerful antioxidant Lycopene is one of the carotenoids found in Apricots.
