Apricots are very nutritious fruits. They are slightly sour and acidic when raw, but their sugar content increases as they ripen. They have several small seeds. The fruit is round, oval and flat. It is believed that this fruit originated from China. They are also very popular in the Middle East.
Apricots are very rich in vitamin A, calcium and sugar. Vitamin A is a major requirement for good eyesight, and development of skin tissue and its maintenance. It is in fact believed to help reduce acne and has even come to be useful in the treatment of other conditions like hypothyroidism. Vitamin A aids in the prevention of arthritis and osteoporosis by neutralizing free radicals. As it helps in maintenance of epithelial cells, it also prevents cancer in any organ that has epithelial tissues. Additionally, Vitamin A prevents respiratory tract infections by building up body resistance.
Calcium is needed for healthy bones, teeth, and nails. Though it is the most abundant mineral in the body, it is still recommended to include calcium in the diet through fruits like apricot. It regulates the heartbeat, can be useful to someone suffering from insomnia, as well as in blood clotting. Moreover, it is believed to help maintain healthy nerve and muscle tissue, and also assists in normal kidney functioning.
Natural sugars that are present in apricots help prevent or minimize tooth decay and plaque build-up.
Apricots are also a good source of vitamin B complex, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin C. Vitamin B complex is needed for the conversion of food to energy in our bodies. This is accomplished by converting the carbohydrates we eat into glucose. Therefore, the vitamin B complex present in apricots helps eliminate fatigue and lethargy in our bodies. Vitamin B complex is also needed for the healthy functioning of the nervous system. A lack of it can cause anxiety, depression, and stress.
Apricots are also important in the facilitation of good digestion as it produces hydrochloric acid that helps in the breakdown of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
Vitamin B complex helps in the synthesis of DNA and RNA promoting the reproduction of cells. It, therefore, enables us to have healthy skin, hair, and nails. Lack of this vitamin causes dry skin, acne-prone skin, and weak hair, which in turn leads to hair fall and splitting nails.
Vitamin C which is present in apricots helps in many metabolic functions of the body. It is especially important in the growth and repair of tissue, healthy gums which prevent bleeding and infection, and proper functioning of the adrenal glands.
It is evident that apricots have multiple benefits to our bodies, not only in promoting good health, but also in proving that they are good fruits to eat.
Author Resource:-
Kevin Pederson, authors web content for http://www.diethealthclub.com a complete online resource featuring diet, health and fitness. This article is focused on helping you plan for new year resolutions for healthy diet plans
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