Apricot: Health benefits : Your online pharmacy selection

What are the health benefits of apricots?

Theapricot is a fruit with multiple health benefits. It is rich in beta-carotene, a precursor of vitamin A, which plays an essential role in eye health, cell regeneration and strengthening the immune system. It is also high in antioxidants, notably flavonoids and vitamin C, which help combat oxidative stress and prevent cell aging.

In addition, its high dietary fiber content promotes healthy intestinal transit, reducing the risk of constipation and improving digestion.Apricots are also an excellent source of potassium, an essential mineral for regulating blood pressure and maintaining cardiovascular health.

What is the nutritional value of apricots?

Apricots are a low-calorie, yet highly nutritious fruit. Here's what they contain per 100g of fresh apricots:

• Calories: approx. 48 kcal
• Carbohydrates: approx. 11 g, mainly fructose
• Fiber: 2 g, to aid digestion
• Protein: 1 g
• Fat: 0.4 g
• Vitamin A (beta-carotene): 1,926 IU, around 64% of daily requirements
• Vitamin C: 10 mg, around 11% of recommended daily intake
• Potassium: 259 mg, an excellent support for heart health
• Iron: 0.4 mg, helping to prevent anaemia

Thanks to this high nutritional density,apricots are a perfect ally for a healthy, balanced diet.

Do apricots help you lose weight?

Yes, apricotsare ideal for slimming diets. Its low calorie content combined with its high fiber content helps prolong the feeling of satiety, thus reducing snacking cravings.

What's more, the soluble fiber it contains regulatessugar absorption and improves digestive metabolism.Apricots are therefore an excellent choice for a healthy snack,preventing cravings while providing essential vitamins and minerals.

Are apricots good for skin and hair?

Absolutely!Apricots are a key ingredient in cosmetics thanks to their high vitamin and antioxidant content. It helps to :

• Deeply moisturize skin thanks to the fatty acids contained in its oil
• Brighten the complexion thanks to vitamin A, which stimulates cell regeneration
• Protect skin against aging by neutralizing free radicals
• Strengthen hair, making it shinier and more resistant

Apricot kernel oil is often used to nourish dry skin, soothe irritation and protect against external aggression.

Is apricot recommended for pregnant women?

Yes,apricots are a beneficial fruit for pregnant women, as they contain a high concentration of folates (vitamin B9), essential for foetal development and the prevention of congenital malformations.

What's more, its iron content helps preventiron-deficiency anemia, common during pregnancy. However, it is advisable not to eat apricot kernels, as they containamygdalin, a compound that can turn into cyanide when ingested in large quantities.

6. How can I incorporate apricots into my daily diet?

Apricots are an extremely versatile fruit that can be eaten in a variety of ways:

• Fresh, as a snack or in a fruit salad
• Dried, for a quick source of energy and a high fiber content
• In juice or smoothies, mixed with other fruits
• In jam or compote, to accompany wholemeal bread or yoghurt
• In savory dishes, as an accompaniment to poultry or tagines

Thanks to its natural sweetness and rich nutritional content,apricots can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.

What are the side effects of eating too many apricots?

Althoughapricots are full of benefits, consuming them in excess can have certain undesirable effects:

• digestive problems, including bloating and diarrhea, due to its high fiber content
• An increase in blood sugar levels, especially in cases of diabetes, due to its fructose content.
• A risk of toxicity, if too many apricot kernels are consumed, due to the presence of amygdalin.

It is therefore advisable to moderate consumption, especially for people sensitive to natural sugars or with fragile digestive systems.