Dried apricots are a tasty, wholesome snack with a number of health advantages. These tiny marvels of nature are nourishing and full of nutrients, which enhance health. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that support heart health and aid with digestion, among many other benefits. But since it could include a small amount of natural sugar, it needs to be ingested in moderation.
Know the five key health benefits of consuming dried apricots:
5 HEALTH BENEFITS OF DRIED APRICOTS
- Rich in Nutrients: Dried apricots are packed with essential nutrients. They are a good source of dietary fibre, which aids digestion and helps maintain healthy bowel movements. They also contain vitamins A and C, which are powerful antioxidants. Additionally, dried apricots provide minerals such as potassium, iron, and calcium, which are important for maintaining proper bodily functions.
- High in Antioxidants: Dried apricots are rich in antioxidants, including carotenoids like beta-carotene and lutein. These antioxidants help protect the body against free radicals. By neutralising free radicals, the antioxidants in dried apricots may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer.
- Promote Eye Health: The high levels of beta-carotene and lutein found in dried apricots are particularly beneficial for eye health. Beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A in the body, which is essential for maintaining good vision. It helps protect the eyes from age-related macular degeneration and reduces the risk of developing cataracts.
- Heart Health: Dried apricots can contribute to heart health due to their fibre content and potassium levels. Dietary fibre helps regulate cholesterol levels by reducing the absorption of LDL (bad) cholesterol. This, in turn, may lower the risk of heart disease. Potassium is a mineral that helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels by counteracting the effects of sodium. Adequate potassium intake is important for overall cardiovascular health, and dried apricots are a good source of this mineral.
- Weight Management: Despite their naturally sweet taste, dried apricots can be a beneficial addition to a weight management plan. They are low in calories and high in fibre, which can help promote feelings of fullness and satiety. Including dried apricots as part of a balanced diet can help control appetite, prevent overeating, and support weight loss or maintenance goals.
Even though dried apricots have several health advantages, it’s still recommended to eat them in moderation. Portion control is essential because they can be heavy in calories and include a fair amount of natural sugars.
Source:In