Apricots are a nutritious fruit that can be enjoyed both fresh and canned. One cup of halved apricots that are drained of solids and cooked or canned contains approximately 182 calories. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals, making them a great addition to any diet.

Apart from being delicious, apricots are packed with vital nutrients. One serving of cooked or canned apricots contains 17% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin A, which is essential for good vision and skin health. They are also a good source of vitamin C, vitamin E, and potassium.

In this article, we will dive into the nutritional value of apricots and explore their health benefits. Additionally, we will share some serving suggestions to help you incorporate apricots into your daily routine.

Caloric Content

As mentioned earlier, one cup of halved apricots that are drained of solids and cooked or canned contains approximately 182 calories. However, it is important to note that apricots are a low calorie, nutrient-dense fruit that can help with weight management. A study conducted on the role of apricots in weight loss found that consuming apricots can lead to a reduction in body weight and BMI (body mass index). Another benefit of apricots is that they have a low glycemic index (GI), which means they don't cause a spike in blood sugar levels, making them a great snack option for people with diabetes. Overall, the caloric content of apricots is not a cause for concern, and they can actually aid in weight loss and blood sugar management.

Vitamin and Mineral Content

Apricots are a great source of essential vitamins and minerals. As mentioned earlier, one serving of cooked or canned apricots contains 17% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin A. They are also a good source of vitamin C, vitamin E, and potassium. Vitamin A is essential for good vision and skin health, while vitamin C is important for immune system function and collagen production. Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that protects the body from free radical damage, and potassium helps regulate blood pressure and maintain fluid balance in the body. The high vitamin and mineral content of apricots make them an excellent addition to any diet, particularly for those looking to increase their nutrient intake.

Protein Content

While apricots are not a significant source of protein, they do contain a small amount of this macronutrient. One serving of cooked or canned apricots contains approximately 1 gram of protein. Protein is an essential nutrient that is required for the growth and repair of tissues in the body. While apricots do not provide a significant amount of protein, they can be combined with other protein sources to form a well-rounded meal or snack. Overall, the protein content of apricots is limited, but they can still contribute to the overall protein intake of an individual.

Carbohydrate Content

Apricots are a good source of carbohydrates, with one serving of cooked or canned apricots containing 22 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are an essential macronutrient that are required for energy production in the body. They also play a role in brain function, and a diet that is too low in carbohydrates can lead to feelings of fatigue and weakness. Apricots are a great source of carbohydrates, particularly for individuals who engage in physical activity or require a quick source of energy.

Fiber Content

Apricots are a good source of dietary fiber, with one serving of cooked or canned apricots containing approximately 3 grams of fiber. Fiber is an essential nutrient that plays a role in maintaining digestive health and regulating blood sugar levels. It also contributes to feelings of fullness and satiety, making it a great addition to meals or snacks for weight management. Incorporating apricots into your diet can help you meet your daily fiber needs and support optimal digestive health.

Fat Content

Apricots are a low-fat food, with one serving of cooked or canned apricots containing less than 1 gram of fat. While fat is an essential macronutrient that plays many important roles in the body, excessive intake can lead to weight gain and other health issues. Apricots are a great low-fat food option that can be incorporated into a healthy diet. Overall, the low-fat content of apricots makes them a great choice for individuals looking to manage their weight or reduce their fat intake.

Sodium Content

One serving of cooked or canned apricots contains approximately 4 milligrams of sodium, making it a low-sodium food option. While sodium is an essential mineral that is required for many bodily functions, excessive intake can lead to high blood pressure and other health issues. Apricots are a great low-sodium food that can be incorporated into a heart-healthy diet. Overall, the low sodium content of apricots makes them a great choice for individuals looking to manage their blood pressure or reduce their sodium intake.

Sugars Content

Apricots are a great low-sugar fruit option, with one serving of cooked or canned apricots containing only 13 grams of sugar. While sugar is a natural component of many fruits, excessive intake can lead to weight gain and other health issues. Apricots are a great low-sugar fruit option that can be enjoyed as a snack or incorporated into meals. Overall, the low sugar content of apricots makes them a great choice for individuals looking to manage their blood sugar levels or reduce their sugar intake.

Health Benefits

Apricots offer many health benefits, including their high vitamin and mineral content, low glycemic index, and fiber content. Eating apricots may help with weight management, blood sugar regulation, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Additionally, the antioxidants in apricots may help protect the body from free radical damage and reduce inflammation. Incorporating apricots into your diet can have a positive impact on your overall health and wellbeing.

Serving Suggestions

There are many ways to incorporate apricots into your diet. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Add chopped apricots to your morning oatmeal or yogurt
• Blend apricots with some ice and water for a refreshing smoothie
• Use apricots to sweeten a salad or roasted vegetable dish
• Bake apricots into a healthy dessert like a crisp or crumble