Apricot Nutritional Value Facts and Health Benefits

Apricots are a type of fruit that are high in nutrients, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium. They are also a good source of dietary fiber, which can help promote healthy digestion and regulate blood sugar levels. Some studies have suggested that apricots may also have antioxidant properties, which may help to protect the body against damage from free radicals. Additionally, apricots are low in calories and fat, making them a healthy addition to a balanced diet. They can be eaten fresh, dried or canned, and can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes such as pies, jams, and salads.

Apricot Nutrition Facts

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a 100 gram serving of fresh apricots contains the following nutrients:

• 49 calories
• 1.3 grams of protein
• 0.9 grams of fat
• 11.8 grams of carbohydrates
• 2.2 grams of dietary fiber
• 9.1 grams of sugar
• 48 milligrams of vitamin C (80% of the Daily Value)
• 474 International Units (IU) of vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value)
• 13 milligrams of calcium (1% of the Daily Value)
• 0.4 milligrams of iron (2% of the Daily Value)
• 259 milligrams of potassium (6% of the Daily Value)

Apricots also contain small amounts of other vitamins and minerals.

Apricot Carbs

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a 100 gram serving of fresh apricots contains 11.8 grams of carbohydrates.

It should be noted that apricots are a source of natural sugar, but it is important to keep in mind that the sugar found in whole fruits like apricots is different from added sugars found in processed foods. Whole fruits also come along with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants which provide health benefits. Eating a diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables can help promote overall health and well-being. It's always good to be mindful of your carbohydrate intake and portion sizes, but apricots can still be part of a healthy diet.

Apricot Fats

According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a 100 gram serving of fresh apricots contains 0.9 grams of fat. The majority of the fats in apricots are unsaturated fats, which can help to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

It's important to note that while apricots are a low-fat food, they are still a source of calories, so it's important to be mindful of portion sizes if you're trying to manage your weight. As part of a balanced diet, apricots can be a healthy addition to your diet.

Apricot Vitamins and Minerals

Apricots are a good source of several vitamins and minerals. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a 100 gram serving of fresh apricots contains:

• 48 milligrams of vitamin C (80% of the Daily Value).
• 474 International Units (IU) of vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value).
• 13 milligrams of calcium (1% of the Daily Value).
• 0.4 milligrams of iron (2% of the Daily Value).
• 259 milligrams of potassium (6% of the Daily Value).

Apricots also contain small amounts of other vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E, vitamin K, and folate.

Vitamin C helps to support the immune system and promote healthy skin, while vitamin A is important for vision and maintaining healthy mucous membranes. Potassium helps to regulate blood pressure and muscle and nerve function, while iron is essential for the production of red blood cells.

Apricot Calories

One medium apricot contains approximately 17 calories.In addition to the calorie content, apricots are a good source of Vitamin A and Vitamin C. They also contain small amounts of other vitamins and minerals such as potassium, dietary fiber, and antioxidants. Dried apricots are higher in calories and sugar than fresh apricots and should be consumed in moderation. Eating a diet that includes a variety of fruits, like apricots, can help provide essential nutrients and may promote overall health.

Apricot Health Benefits

Apricots are a good source of Vitamin A and Vitamin C, which are important for maintaining healthy eyes and skin. They also contain antioxidants, which can help protect the body against damage from free radicals.

Apricots are also a good source of dietary fiber, which can help promote healthy digestion and may help lower cholesterol levels.

Some studies have suggested that apricots may have anti-inflammatory properties and may help lower the risk of certain types of cancer.

Apricots are also a good source of potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and promote healthy heart function.

Eating a diet that includes a variety of fruits, like apricots, may help promote overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

However, it's worth noting that these benefits are derived from a diet containing a variety of fruits and vegetables, and that more research is needed to confirm the specific health benefits of apricots.

Apricot Varieties

There are many varieties of apricots, but some of the most common include:

• Moorpark: This is one of the most widely cultivated apricot varieties. It is a large, juicy fruit with a yellow-orange color and a sweet, rich flavor.
• Tilton: This is a late-ripening variety that is known for its large, sweet fruit and deep orange color.
• Blenheim: This is an heirloom variety that is known for its sweet, rich flavor and small to medium sized fruit.
• Royal: This is a large, sweet and juicy apricot with a deep orange color.
• Goldrich: This is a self-fertile apricot variety, ripens early and has a yellow-orange color and sweet taste.
• Italian: This is a large apricot variety that is known for its sweet, rich flavor and deep orange color.
• Katy: This is a firm, flavorful apricot that is good for canning, drying, and fresh eating.
• Chinese: This apricot is a mid to late season apricot, with a yellow-orange color, firm and sweet flesh.

These are just a few examples of the many apricot varieties available. The availability of apricot varieties may vary depending on the region and the season.

Canned apricots are a convenient and tasty way to enjoy this sweet fruit. The calorie content of canned apricots will depend on the specific brand and variety you are consuming, as well as any added ingredients such as sugar or syrup.

In general, a 1/2 cup (120 grams) serving of canned apricots in light syrup contains approximately:

• 70-80 calories
• 0 grams of fat
• 19-20 grams of carbohydrates
• 1 gram of protein

If the apricots are packed in heavy syrup or sweetened with additional sugar, the calorie content may be higher. Canned apricots are a good source of fiber and provide a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A and potassium. They can be enjoyed as a snack, or used as an ingredient in a variety of dishes, such as salads, desserts, and baked goods