Although they may be small, apricots are big in both flavor and nutrition. These yellow-orange fruits are rich in vitamins and minerals, with a taste ranging from sweet to sweet-tart, depending on the variety. The flesh of apricots is soft and somewhat juicy when ripe, and they have velvety skin with soft fuzz.
Prunus armeniaca originated in China, where it was first cultivated about 4,000 years ago. This delicious stone fruit held high favor with locals, traders, and travelers, so it’s no surprise that it began its journey west along the Silk Road. Over time, apricots began growing across Central Asia and the Middle East. Apricots reached the Mediterranean about 2,000 years ago, where they flourished in the warm, sunny climate. Today, Turkey and Iran are the world’s largest producers of apricots.The many health benefits of apricots make them a great addition to your diet.

Here are some of the ways that apricots can benefit your health:

Apricots are a good source of fiber which can help to regulate digestion and prevent constipation.
The potassium in apricots can help to keep blood pressure low by countering the effects of sodium.
Apricots are rich in antioxidants like carotenes and flavonoids which can help to protect cells from damage by free radicals.
The beta-carotene in apricots can boost immunity and help to fight off infections.
Minerals like copper and iron present in apricots can help to form new blood cells and carry oxygen around the body.
Apricots can help to improve eyesight due to the presence of vitamins A & C as well as carotenes.
Eating apricots regularly can help to prevent osteoporosis by increasing bone density.
The antioxidants present in apricots can also help to slow down aging by protecting cells from damage.

The Secret behind Apricots’ Success

The key to apricots’ success lies in a substance called citrulline. Citrulline is an amino acid that’s found in watermelon, but it’s particularly concentrated in apricots. When citrulline enters the body, it’s converted into another amino acid known as arginine. Arginine has some pretty incredible effects on the human body, including improved blood circulation and increased libido. In fact, arginine is so effective that it’s often referred to as “nature’s Viagra.”

Not only does arginine improve blood circulation, but it also helps to relax the blood vessels. This can be beneficial for sufferers of erectile dysfunction, as it allows more blood to flow to the penis. Arginine can also help to increase libido by boosting levels of nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide is a gas that plays an important role in sexual arousal and dilation of blood vessels.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many reasons to make apricots a part of your healthy diet! So next time you’re at the grocery store, be sure to pick up a few boxes of these delicious yellow-orange fruits. Your body will thank you for it!