Apricots are a delicious and versatile fruit that provide a wide range of health benefits. They are packed with important nutrients and antioxidants, making them an excellent food choice for those interested in promoting their overall health. In this article, we will explore the many anti-inflammatory benefits of apricots, as well as their effects on bone health.
Nutritional Values of Apricots
Before we dive into the health benefits, let’s take a look at the nutritional values of apricots. A cup of apricots (155g) contains approximately:
- 79 calories
- 19g carbohydrates
- 3g fiber
- 14g sugar
- 2g protein
- 68% of the daily recommended value of vitamin A
- 16% of the daily recommended value of vitamin C
- 5% of the daily recommended value of iron
Apricots are also rich in potassium, which is important for maintaining proper fluid balance in the body.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Apricots
Apricots are rich in various antioxidants, including vitamin C, beta-carotene, and quercetin. These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling, pain, and other symptoms of inflammation in the body.
Research has also shown that the flavonoids present in apricots can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which can contribute to the development of chronic inflammatory diseases such as arthritis, heart disease, and cancer.
Bone Health Benefits of Apricots
As we age, our bones become less dense, leading to an increased risk of fractures and osteoporosis. Apricots can help maintain strong, healthy bones due to their high calcium and potassium content. Calcium is important for the development and maintenance of bones, while potassium helps prevent calcium loss from the body.
In addition, apricots contain trace amounts of boron, a mineral that has been shown to improve bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Immune System Effects of Apricots
Apricots contain significant amounts of vitamin A, an essential nutrient that supports immune function. Vitamin A plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of the immune system, helping to fight off infections and diseases.
Research has also shown that the carotenoids present in apricots can enhance immune function and reduce inflammation in the body.
Food Combining Information
Apricots are a versatile fruit that can be consumed in many different ways. They can be eaten raw, stewed, or dried. Apricots can also be paired with other foods to create delicious, healthy meals.
Dried apricots are a great snack option that can be paired with nuts, cheese, or yogurt. Fresh apricots can also be added to salads or smoothies, making them a great addition to any meal.
Anti-Inflammatory Smoothie Recipe
Here’s a unique anti-inflammatory smoothie recipe utilizing the goodness of apricots:
Ingredients
- 2 ripe apricots (peeled and pitted)
- 1 ripe banana
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp honey
Directions
- Add all the ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, apricots are an excellent food choice due to their many health benefits. They are packed with essential nutrients, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds, making them an excellent choice for those looking to promote overall health. Regular consumption of apricots can help reduce the risk of chronic inflammation, improve bone health, and support the immune system. Incorporating apricots into our diet is an easy and delicious way to support our health and wellbeing.
If you love anti-inflammatory fruits, check out the rest of our fruit section here, or pop over to our anti-inflammatory herbs section, where you can find powerful goodness to add to any autoimmune smoothie.
Thank you for taking the time to read this article. Come back again soon and keep making healthy choices!