They may be small but apricots pack a powerful punch of healthy nutrients! Indigenous to the mountains of China, apricots have been enjoyed for more than 4,000 years. They are one of the first fruits of summer and are in season here in the USA from May through August. Apricots are a good source of immune-boosting vitamins A and C. Vitamin A is also important for promoting healthy eyes and good vision. Apricots are also a good source of dietary fiber which makes them a good food for weight loss. They are also one of the few foods that contain the carotenoid called lycopene which helps promote healthy lungs and can prevent certain cancers. Apricots also have many flavonoid phytonutrients that promote antioxidant activity in the body and potassium to keep your heart in good health.
DID YOU KNOW:
– In Latin, the word “apricot” means “early matured fruit”.
– Apricots are cousins of peaches!
– Dried apricots have less vitamin C than fresh apricots but they can provide a concentrated source of iron and beta-carotene. Just make sure you are always eating unsulfered dried fruit.