The Many Benefits of the Amazing Apricot

Apricots are small, golden-orange fruits with velvety skin and flesh, not too moist and juicy, but definitely smooth and sweet. Some think of the flavor to be somewhere between a plum and a peach.

The apricot is a fantastic fruit that is packed with many benefits. Whether fresh or dried, eating apricots can help you battle the effects of aging, protect against heart related illnesses, protect your vision and fend off cancers. Apricots contain phytochemicals known as carotenoids that are compounds that give reddish, orange and yellow colors to fruits and vegetables. Carotenoids are antioxidants that help your body protect against cardiovascular disease by decreasing the LDL in the blood. Another powerful anti-oxidant, lycopene is but one of the carotenoids present in apricots. This amazing fruit is additionally packed with beta carotene, Vitamin A, iron, dietary fiber, Vitamin C, and many B Vitamins.

Heart Health--- The amazing carotenoid, lycopene protects the cardiovascular system by reducing the blood levels of Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL=bad cholesterol). LDL causes the development of plaque in arteries, which can lead to numerous heart conditions. Eating dried apricots as a snack food can power up your levels of potassium, magnesium and copper. These essential nutrients help control hypertension, and prevent heart disease.

Cancer Protection---Lycopene aids in combating breast, prostate, and many other types of cancer. The beta-carotene in apricots reduces the potential risk of some types of stomach and intestinal cancers. To receive these benefits, experts suggest getting at least 5 mg. of beta-carotine each day. That's equal to about 6 fresh apricots.

Vitamin A--- Apricots are a good source of Vitamin A that is necessary for good eye health. This can protect against macular degeneration, the biggest root cause of age-related blindness. Apricots is also important for cataract prevention.

Iron---Apricots are full of iron, which will help to deal with anemia because it helps to produce hemoglobin. This may benefit women with heavy menstrual periods and are a good choice for pregnant women as a natural source of dietary iron.

Fiber---Apricots are an excellent source of fiber that has the health benefit of preventing constipation and digestive conditions such as diverticulosis. As few as five dried apricots can give you up to 3 grams of fiber. This will help to flush the bad cholesterol out of your system before it has a chance to clog up your arteries. Apricots can relieve acidity in the stomach and calm down undesirable gas.

Apricots are super easy to work into your diet plan. You'll find them fresh at the produce department. When eaten in moderation dried apricots are a compact, handy type of nutrition and a excellent treat. You can keep them in your desk at work, in your gym bag or in your car. Serve fresh apricots in your green salad when they're in season. Enjoy!