One ounce of apricots (solids and liquids with skin, heavy syrup pack, canned) contains 24 calories. Apricots are a nutritious fruit that can benefit your health in many ways.
Apricots are an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamin A, and potassium. They are also low in calories, making them a great addition to any diet. One ounce of apricots contains 1 gram of fiber, 269 IU of vitamin A, and 82 mg of potassium.
In this article, we will explore the nutritional benefits of apricots, how to incorporate them into your diet, storage tips for canned apricots, the difference between fresh and canned apricots, apricot recipes you can try, side effects of consuming too many apricots, other uses of apricots, apricot varieties you should know about, and frequently asked questions.
Apricots are a low-calorie, nutrient-dense fruit. One ounce of apricots contains:
- 24 calories
- 1 gram of fiber
- 269 IU of vitamin A
- 82 mg of potassium
Apricots also contain small amounts of other vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and iron.
Benefits of Eating Apricots
Apricots offer several health benefits, including:
- Improving digestion
- Boosting immunity
- Reducing inflammation
- Lowering cholesterol levels
- Regulating blood pressure
- Supporting eye health
The fiber in apricots helps prevent constipation and promotes regular bowel movements. The vitamin A in apricots supports a healthy immune system and promotes good vision. The potassium in apricots helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart health.
How to Incorporate Apricots in Your Diet
There are many ways to incorporate apricots into your diet, including:
- As a snack
- Sliced in salads
- Added to smoothies
- Baked into desserts
- As a topping for yogurt or oatmeal
Fresh apricots can be eaten raw or cooked, while canned apricots can be used in baking, cooking, and as a topping for desserts and smoothies.
Storage Tips for Canned Apricots
Canned apricots should be stored in a cool, dry place. Once opened, they should be refrigerated and consumed within a few days. Before consuming canned apricots, check the expiration date and discard any cans that are damaged or bulging.
Difference Between Fresh and Canned Apricots
Fresh apricots are available during the summer months and have a sweet, juicy flavor. Canned apricots, on the other hand, are available year-round and are often packed in heavy syrup. While fresh apricots are higher in vitamin C and certain antioxidants, canned apricots can be a convenient and affordable way to enjoy this tasty fruit all year long.
Apricot Recipes You Can Try
There are many delicious apricot recipes you can try, including:
- Apricot jam
- Apricot crumble
- Apricot chicken
- Apricot smoothie
- Apricot salad
There are also many baked goods that can be made with apricots, including cakes, muffins, and breads.
Side Effects of Consuming Too Many Apricots
While apricots offer several health benefits, consuming too many can have some adverse effects, including:
- Stomach pain
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
- Gas
These side effects are mainly due to the high fiber content in apricots. Consuming moderate amounts of apricots is generally considered safe for most people.
Other Uses of Apricots
Apricots have several uses beyond culinary purposes, including:
- Skincare products
- Medicinal purposes
- As a natural dye
- As a flavoring in liqueurs
- As a fragrance in perfumes
Apricot kernels are also used in some cultures for medicinal purposes, although they can be toxic in large amounts.
Apricot Varieties You Should Know About
There are many varieties of apricots, including:
- Harcot
- Pixie
- Honey Rich
- Patterson
- Perfection
Each variety has its own unique flavor and texture, so it's worth trying a few to find your favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about apricots:
- Q: Are apricots a good source of vitamin C?
- A: While apricots are not as high in vitamin C as some other fruits, they do contain small amounts of this nutrient.
- Q: Are apricots high in sugar?
- A: Canned apricots are often packed in heavy syrup, which can make them high in sugar. Fresh apricots, on the other hand, are lower in sugar.
- Q: Can apricots help with weight loss?
- A: Apricots are low in calories and high in fiber, which can help with weight loss when consumed as part of a healthy diet.
Apricots offer several health benefits, including improving digestion, boosting immunity, reducing inflammation, and supporting eye health.
5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Canned Apricots
1. What are canned apricots?
Canned apricots are apricots that have been processed and preserved in a can using heavy syrup, giving them a longer shelf life.
2. Are canned apricots healthy?
Canned apricots can be a healthy addition to your diet as they are a good source of fiber, vitamin C and antioxidants. However, be mindful of the added sugars in heavy syrup and consume in moderation.
3. How many calories are in canned apricots?
One ounce of canned apricots (solids and liquids with skin, heavy syrup pack) contains approximately 24 calories.
4. What are the benefits of eating canned apricots?
Canned apricots are a good source of fiber which can aid in digestion and contribute to feelings of fullness. They also contain high levels of vitamin C which play an important role in immune function and collagen production. Additionally, apricots are a good source of antioxidants which can help protect against cellular damage caused by free radicals.
5. How can I use canned apricots?
Canned apricots are versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. They can be eaten on their own as a snack, added to salads, smoothies or yogurt bowls. They can also be incorporated into baked goods or used as a topping for oatmeal or pancakes.