Health Benefits of Apricot (Khubani)

Apricot is packed with various bio-active compounds such as carotenoids, polyphenols, vitamin C, vitamin A, ascorbic acid and more. Let us have a look at the apricot fruit nutrition value per 100 grams:

Apricots are rich sources of nutrients like protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals, which offer various health benefits.

Apricot Seeds for Cancer Treatment

One crucial apricot seed oil benefit is its use in cancer treatment. It is rich in antioxidants, such as beta-carotene, which helps combat oxidative stress. This reduces the risk of various chronic illnesses, such as cancer.

In addition to this, apricots also contain vitamins C and A, which help boost the immune system to fight cancer. Further, apricot seeds contain the B17 compound, which can be linked to cancer treatment. However, this needs more research.

Apricots Support Heart Health

Another known health benefit of dried apricots is better heart health. The fruit is rich in fibre, which assists in lowering the bad cholesterol level in the body and increasing the good cholesterol level.

Furthermore, the potassium content in the apricot helps keep the heart muscle in good condition by balancing the electrolyte level.

Additionally, dietary fibre helps remove excess cholesterol from the arteries and vessels, thus reducing the strain on the heart.

Apricots Manages Diabetes

Apricots are known for their low glycemic index, which simply means they do not cause blood glucose levels to increase significantly. Hence, they are a good food option for diabetic people.

Furthermore, the fibre content present in the apricots also helps in controlling blood sugar levels. Apart from this, the fruit is also a rich source of vitamin E, which also helps in lowering the blood glucose level.

Apricots for Treatment of Anaemia

Another crucial dry apricot benefit for males and females is for the treatment of anaemia. Apricots are enriched with copper and iron, which help in the production of haemoglobin and thus assist in the treatment of anaemia.

Anaemia is a medical condition that happens due to the lack of iron and causes weakness and dizziness to the person suffering from it. However, by consuming apricots, you can boost your metabolism and maintain a healthy body.

Apricots Enhances Digestive Health

Apricots, whether eaten fresh or dried, are a good source of dietary fibre, which helps in enhancing the digestive system's health.

The retinol present in apricot is fat soluble, which helps dissolve the fruit in the body easily, further leading to the absorption of all the nutrients present in it.

Further, it also breaks down fatty acids fast, which keeps the digestion process in order. This prevents constipation and other digestive issues.

Apricots for Healthy Bones

Another crucial apricot benefit is healthy bones. Apricot fruit contains various minerals such as calcium, copper, iron, phosphorus and manganese, which are necessary for bone growth.

A lack of calcium in the body can cause Osteoporosis, which is low bone strength and density. Also, potassium controls the distribution, excretion and absorption of calcium.

Luckily, apricots have both these minerals, which help prevent bone-related problems and maintain healthy bones.

Apricots Support Eye Health

Another popular benefit of khumani or apricot fruit is better eye health or vision. Apricots are rich in beta-carotene, which helps prevent various eye diseases such as dry eye and age-related macular disorders.

Further, vitamin E present in the apricot protects the eye from harmful free radicals. The vitamin A content of apricots helps prevent night blindness.

Apricots Boosts Immune Function

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient for boosting the immune system, and thankfully, apricots are rich in it. The vitamin C content in apricots helps produce white blood cells and fight infections.

Daily consumption of apricots can help our bodies become healthy and fight various infection-related diseases such as colds, fevers and flu.

Apricots for Skin Health

Apricot fruit is enriched with lycopene and vitamins A, C and B, which help offer a smooth and shiny appearance to skin.

The skin easily absorbs all these compounds present in the fruit and does not give an oily appearance after its application.

Apricot oil is also helpful in preventing various skin diseases such as eczema, itching, etc. Further, its antioxidant properties help in preventing premature ageing.

Apricots Benefit During Pregnancy

Another significant dried apricot health benefit for females is during pregnancy, as it helps enhance iron consumption.

Apart from this, apricots also contain various other essential nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, folic acid and potassium, which help keep pregnant women healthy. Further, they also aid in controlling various digestive issues.

Apricots can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, from fresh and raw to dried. There are countless apricot recipes waiting to be explored, each offering a unique way to enjoy the nutritional benefits of this versatile fruit.

Apricot-Blackberry Pie

Ingredients

• 5 cups of peeled and sliced apricots

• ½ cup unblanched toasted almonds

• 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour

• ¼ teaspoon of salt

• 1 tablespoon of cornstarch

• ½ cup of sugar

• 2 tablespoons of cream cheese

• 1½ cups of fresh blackberries

• ¾ cup of buttermilk

• Coarse sugar

• 1 egg

How to Prepare

Step 1: In a food processor, put the almonds until they are finely ground. Now, add flour, sugar and salt and blend them.

Step 2: Once the mixture is blended, add butter and cream cheese.

Step 3: Now, gradually add the buttermilk until the mixture starts to thicken and take the shape of a ball.

Step 4: When the dough is ready, divide it and refrigerate it for 1 hour.

Step 5: Now, in another bowl, whisk sugar, salt and cornstarch.

Step 6: Next, add berries and apricots in a bowl. Let this mixture stand for 10 minutes to make a filling juicy.

Step 7: Next, make a pie roll on a floured surface and transfer it to a pie plate. Do not forget to grease the plate.

Step 8: Add the apricot and berries filling.

Step 9: Now, cover it with another dough roll. Seal the edges of the uncooked pie.

Step 10: Whisk the egg with water in a small bowl, then brush it over the pie.

Step 11: Preheat the oven to 425' and bake the pie for about 20 minutes, then reduce the setting to 375' and bake for another 45 - 50 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling is juicy.

Apricot Halwa

Ingredients

• 1 cup of dried apricots

• 1 tablespoon of ghee

• ¼ teaspoon of cardamom powder

• Pinch of saffron strands

• 2 tablespoons of chopped mixed nuts

How to Prepare

Step 1: Soak the apricots in water for about an hour.

Step 2: Drain the apricot, deseed it and blend it with water until the mixture becomes smooth.

Step 3: Heat ghee in a non-stick pan and add the apricot puree.

Step 4: Mix it well and cook on a medium flame for about 5 minutes. Stir it continuously so that it would not get stuck to the pan. Further, add the saffron and cardamom powder and let it cook for 1 minute.

Step 5: Switch off the flame and garnish it with chopped mixed nuts.

Apricot and Fig Shake

Ingredients

• 4 dried apricots, deseeded and chopped

• 5 slices of dried figs

• 1 teaspoon of sugar

1 ¼ cup of milk

• Ice cubes (optional)

How to Prepare

Step 1: Soak the apricots and figs in the ¼ cup of warm milk for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Pour the apricots and fig mixture into the blender, add 1 cup of milk, sugar and ice cubes, and blend until the mixture becomes frothy and smooth.

Step 3: Pour the mixture into a glass and garnish it with chopped almonds.

Adequate intake of apricot fruit is necessary to avoid any side effects. However, if this fruit is consumed in excessive quantities, it might pose some risks.

Cyanide Poisoning: Apricot seeds (kernels) contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide when metabolised. Consuming large quantities of apricot kernels can be toxic and potentially fatal.

Digestive Issues: Due to their high fibre content, eating too many apricots can lead to digestive problems, including bloating, gas and diarrhoea.

Interference with Medications: The vitamin K content in apricots can interfere with blood-thinning medications like warfarin.

Oxalates: Apricots contain oxalates, which can contribute to the formation of kidney stones in susceptible individuals.

Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar: Apricots can affect blood pressure and blood sugar levels. They contain potassium, which can lower blood pressure, but in large amounts, it may affect individuals with kidney problems. Also, the natural sugars in apricots can raise blood sugar levels.

In case of any severe symptoms caused by apricots, it is best to consult a healthcare practitioner. Based on the severity of symptoms, a doctor may suggest a treatment plan.

Due to inflation, healthcare treatment costs are skyrocketing. As a result, people hesitate to seek quality medical care in reputable hospitals. However, by investing in the best health insurance policy, such situations can be easily avoided.

A health insurance plan not only offers top-notch medical care but also shields individual financial assets during times of medical crises.

With a medical insurance plan by your side, you can focus on getting better while the insurance provider takes care of the medical expenses.

For over two decades, Tata AIG has been a trusted name in the insurance industry, known for offering a wide range of medical insurance plans tailored to meet your unique needs.

Whether you are looking for critical illness coverage, a comprehensive family floater health insurance plan, or specialised medical insurance for senior citizens, we have the perfect plan for you.

At Tata AIG, we pride ourselves on providing hassle-free claim settlement services. With an impressive claim settlement ratio of 96.70% in the last financial year, you can count on us to be there when you need us the most.

Apricot fruit is a powerhouse of various nutrients such as calcium, protein, fibre, magnesium, vitamins and more. The fruit has a sweet and tangy flavour and can be enjoyed fresh and dried.

However, it should be consumed in moderation to avoid any side effects. Excessive consumption of apricot may cause digestive issues, allergic reactions and more. In case of any side effects caused by the consumption of apricot, reach out to the doctor immediately.

Is apricot good for the liver?

Yes, apricots can be good for the liver. They are rich in antioxidants, vitamins (such as vitamins A and C), and fibre, which can help protect the liver from oxidative stress and support its overall health.

Does apricot increase uric acid?

No, apricot fruits are not typically associated with increasing uric acid levels. They are low in purines, which are compounds that can raise uric acid levels in the blood.

How many apricots should I eat a day?

Eating 2-3 fresh apricots a day is generally considered safe and provides health benefits without causing any side effects.

However, individual tolerance can vary, so it is important to consult a healthcare provider if you have any concerns or existing health conditions.

Disclaimer: This is a general guide on the Health Benefits of Apricot (Khubani). It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. It is advisable to consult a qualified health professional for treatment in severe cases.