Apricot: Here's Why You Should Add This Exotic Fruit to Your Diet!

Fruits are an important element in our diet since they are rich in vitamins and minerals that the body needs. Although it is a rare fruit, apricots are packed with a number of vital minerals. It is a much-loved fruit and can be eaten both raw as well as cooked.

The fruit is low in calories but contains important nutrients including Vitamins A, C, and E as well as potassium and other nutrients, making it a great option for many people. Check out the advantages of eating apricots mentioned below:

1. It is good for the eyes.  Vitamin A, which is present in apricots, helps in protecting the eyes from damage such as night blindness. However, the fruit also has vitamin E, which protects the eyes against oxidative damage. Beta-carotene, another antioxidant found in apricots, helps in the body's production of vitamin A which again protects the eyes.

2. It is beneficial for the digestive system. The fibers included in apricots help in the digestive process. Fibers facilitate bowel movement, which lowers the likelihood of constipation. Additionally, they enhance the health of the gut bacteria which then helps to keep the digestive system healthy.

3. It is good for your blood pressure. Because apricots contain potassium, they help to relax the blood vessels and lower blood pressure. Additionally, potassium supports the body's fluid balance.

4. It benefits the heart. The fibers in apricots help in reducing blood levels of bad cholesterol. The risk of heart disease is also lower when blood cholesterol levels are lower.

5. It contains lots of antioxidants. In addition to protecting the body from numerous diseases including diabetes and heart disease, antioxidants also help to reduce the harm done by free radicals. Additionally, it helps in the reduction of inflammation in the body.

Here are a few apricot recipes to try out:

• Enjoy an apricot cobbler or crisp.

• Create a pasta salad with chicken, apricots, almonds, vegetables, and lemon dressing.

• Combine fresh apricot jam with red pepper flakes for a spicy-sweet sauce over chicken.

• Top French toast with apricot compote.

• Poach apricot halves with fresh vanilla bean.

• Bake a tart with apricot and pistachio.

• Drizzle apricot glaze onto baked ham.