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Substances present in dried apricots regulate blood pressure and strengthen the body’s natural immunity. They are recommended in the diet of anemic people, people with hypertension and high acidity. But not only! What other beneficial properties does dried apricot have?
Dried apricots are a rich source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidant compounds. Thanks to these ingredients, they have a positive effect on the health of the body. They are especially recommended in the diet of people with hypertension, high stomach acidity, and exhausted after illness.
Dried apricots are a storehouse of vitamins and minerals. Nutritional value of apricots
The nutritional value of dried apricots is high, as these fruits contain many valuable vitamins and minerals that have numerous health benefits. However, you should not eat them in very large quantities, especially in the evening, since dried fruits are much higher in calories than fresh ones. Dried apricots contain about 241 kcal per 100 grams, while fresh ones contain only 48 kcal.
These fruits contain large amounts of beta-carotene, that is, provitamin A, which is a natural antioxidant substance. This compound supports the functioning of the immune system, protecting against the development of infections, preventing the formation of cancer, and is also involved in the process of vision. Beta-carotene in the human body is transformed into its active form – vitamin A, which ensures the proper condition and regeneration of the skin and mucous membranes.
Dried apricots also contain another antioxidant – vitamin C, which strengthens the body’s immunity, prevents skin aging and protects against the development of cardiovascular diseases and cancer.
A valuable compound contained in dried apricots is vitamin B6, which is necessary for the proper functioning of the nervous system. It is also involved in the production of hemoglobin, so it is an important ingredient in the diet of people with anemia. Vitamin B6, present in apricots, prevents atherosclerosis because it reduces the level of homo cysteine in the body, a compound that contributes to this disease. It also helps improve heart function.
Dried apricots contain potassium, which is responsible for regulating blood pressure and water balance in the body. Moreover, it supports kidney function and influences the proper functioning of the neuromuscular system. Dried apricots also contain iron, a mineral that prevents anemia, stimulates the immune system and reduces fatigue. Other significant ingredients of dried apricots are: dietary fiber, calcium, and phosphorus.
Useful properties of dried apricots
The properties of dried apricots are used in the prevention and treatment of various diseases and ailments. These fruits help improve digestive processes and accelerate intestinal motility due to the presence of dietary fiber. For this reason, eating dried apricots helps eliminate the problem of constipation. Dried apricots have an alkali-forming effect, so they are recommended for high stomach acidity.
They contain high amounts of potassium, so they are worth eating if you suffer from hypertension. Due to its calcium and phosphorus content, dried apricots should be included in the diet of people suffering from or at risk of osteoporosis. They should also be included in the diets of people with anemia and people at risk of developing anemia, including: vegetarians and girls with heavy periods. Dried apricots have a beneficial effect on the skin because it has nourishing, smoothing properties and promotes the regeneration of the epidermis.
Based on them, you can prepare a mask designed to care for acne and oily skin. Just crush the dried apricots and pour warm milk over them. The mask is applied to the face and left for about 20 minutes. Regular use of such care leads to healthy and fresh-looking skin.
Dried apricots – what should you be wary of?
Dried apricots are often preserved using sulfur dioxide, which preserves the intense orange color of the fruit. However, this compound reduces the nutritional value of the product. It also has allergenic properties and can cause gastrointestinal irritation, leading to abdominal pain and diarrhea. In stores, you can buy dried, non-sulfonated apricots, which are safer, especially for allergy sufferers and asthmatics.
Using dried apricots in the kitchen
Dried apricots can be eaten as a stand-alone, sweet and nutritious snack instead of highly processed foods such as candy, chips, or breadsticks. They are also a tasty addition to breakfast, especially oatmeal. Dried apricots are also used in making homemade desserts – jelly cheesecake, apple pie or shortbread pie.
