Plus, the apricot nutrition info that you should definitely keep in mind when shopping for seasonal produce.
The next time you’re craving a treat, reach for an apricot.
The juicy fruit is naturally sweet, somewhat tart, and super tasty.
Photo: Getty Images
But as it turns out, apricots can do so much more than kindly your taste buds.
They offer a rich cocktail of good-for-you nutrients, fromgut-regulating fiberto disease-staving antioxidants.
What Are Apricots?
This pit protects a seed, which is not edible, according to thePennsylvania State University.
The flavonoids and vitamins C and E in apricots also provide antioxidant abilities, notes Meshulam.
Promotes Healthy Digestion
Next on the list of apricot benefits is gut health.
Both the flesh and peel contain a plethora offiber, says Meshulam.
And this includes soluble and insoluble fiber, which are both essential for a happy GI tract.
This helps bulk up your stool, notes Jones, potentially preventing or alleviating diarrhea.
On the flipside, insoluble fiber doesn’t dissolve in water, according toHarvard T.H.
Chan School of Public Health.
Oh, and remember how apricots have soluble fiber?
Essentially, soluble fiber binds with bile acids in the gut.
But when the fiber exits your body via stool, it brings the bile acids along with it.
Supports Immune Function
Want to bolster your immune system?
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Vitamins C and E which are found in apricots are essential for healthy immunity, says Jones.
Specifically, vitamin C protects white blood cells (i.e.
Vitamin C also helpsphagocytes(i.e.
Apricots also contain the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin, according to the USDA.
Contributes to Hydration
As it turns out, cucumbers and celery aren’t the only hydrating produce.
“Fresh apricots are about 86 percent water or about 30 grams for each apricot,” explains Meshulam.
The math works out to about 1/8 cup of water per apricot, she adds.
Apricot allergies are a thing, too.
Not sure if you’re at risk?
The juicy fruits are available fresh, dried, canned, or as jams/spreads.
Looking for the most nutritionally dense choice?
Similarly, heat which is used to make dried apricots destroys vitamin C, explains Syn.
When choosing fresh apricots, look for ones with a golden color, suggests Roach.
Also, pick fruits that are firm but not too hard, she adds.
Leave behind apricots that are soft, mushy, cracked, or bruised, which may indicate spoilage.
At home, store ripe apricots in the refrigerator and use them within three to five days.
(Reminder: The skin is edible!)
you’re able to also slice or cube apricot to be used in delicious dishes.
Grilled.Elevate your barbecue game by adding firm fruits see: apricots to the grill.
Another option is to simply grill apricots and top with feta, basil, and cucumber.
Baked apricots are just as tasty.
Garnish the sweet treat with cinnamon, honey, or both for some extra sweetness, she adds.
In a charcuterie board.Sweeten up your next charcuterie board with a handful of dried apricots.
Try this recipe forapricot jam with thymefrom food blogNourish and Nestle.
In ice pops.This summer, cool down with homemade apricot ice pops.
Toss them in your go-tosmoothieand freeze them in popsicle molds.
