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Apricots – Nutrition Information
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Apricots are the first sign of summer! Although dried and canned apricots are available all year round, fresh apricots are the fruits indicative of the summer months. Busting with nutrition, they are a great source of vitamin C, fibre and beta carotene.
Health Benefits
- Apricots are rich in many phytochemicals or antioxidants. Antioxidants are important in fighting the damaging effects on your body caused by free radicals;
- The apricot is a good source of Vitamin A and C. These are not only potent antioxidants, they are also vitamins that are important for healthy skin and immune system;
- Apricots are rich in flavonoids. Diets rich in flavonoids have been linked with being beneficial in the reduction of heart disease;
- Apricots are rich in nutrients such as carotenoids and xanthophylls. Both these nutrients have been found to protects your eyesight from age related damage;
- Apricots are a rich dietary source of catechins (also found in green tea). This phytonutrients are potent anti-inflammatory nutrients. Studies have found that catechins can inhibit the activity of an enzyme called COX2. This enzyme plays a role in the process of inflammation;
- Apricots are a source of dietary fibre. Fibre is important in supporting digestive health. It is also important for balancing cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
Sulphites
Commercially grown dried apricots may be treated with the preservative, sulphur dioxide in order to extend their shelf life. These sulphites can cause adverse reactions in some people who are sulphite sensitive. Sulfite reactions are more prominent particularly with people who suffer from asthma. Instead of purchasing the bright orange, sulphite treated dried apricots, go for the unsulfured slightly brown coloured dried apricots. These are a much healthier choice.
Foods that are classified as organic do not contain sulphites as the organic standard does not permit the use of preservatives.
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