The dried apricot is often overlooked in favour of other dried fruits. But the apricot is just as healthy, in some cases even healthier. Along with having a wide variety of health benefits, it is also low in calories as compared to other dried fruits. One apricot would be barely 18 calories.
Commonly known as aloo bukhara or jardalu in India, the apricot is especially popular during the festive season of Diwali. The Hunzas who reside in the North East Frontier Province near Ladakh live up to the age of 100. Their secret? They consume huge amounts of dried apricots every day!
Low on the glycemic index, the apricot gives you energy for longer periods and satisfies your sweet cravings as well! This is one of the sources of natural sugar for a diabetic.
Apricots, with an intense golden orange colour, can be added to your salads as well as cereals, or could be eaten alone — they make an excellent snack.
Being an excellent source of beta carotene (plant form of vitamin A) apricots can improve your vision and are good for the hair as well as the skin. In fact, 2-3 apricots contribute to 50 per cent of your vitamin A requirements. The antioxidant properties present in apricots prevent the cells in your body from free radical damage, help reduce the risk of cardiac problems and strokes and retard a number of cancers.
Dried apricots, being rich in fibre, act as laxative agents and are good for treating constipation. Their iron content makes them extremely beneficial for people suffering from anaemia. They also play a role in preventing hypertension due to the presence of potassium. Apricots contain no fat and only a small amount of carbs. So, add dried apricots to your daily diet as they will be good for you.
The writer is a
Mumbai-based nutritionist