Apricots

Dried or fresh, apricots are a great sweet snack

Apricots, a tree native to China, have been grown for thousands of years. With a delicate inner flesh and velvety outer skin, the fragrance of this delicious fruit made them very popular from Persia to Rome. From these early influences, the apricot tree made its way through France to England, then onto the New World, where it flourishes in California and Florida. Today, apricots are grown from Turkey to South Africa, Japan to Mexico. The fruit begins to take shape in late spring, and continues to grow until early fall, when the colder weather helps the apricot to become sweeter. From here, they are picked from the tree and sent to market. Additionally, apricots are dried in the sun to produce a shelf stable food which can store for months at a time.

Key Nutrients

Apricots contain a large amount of carotenes, iron and potassium. Apricots have a high degree of fiber, while having a low amount of fat.

Health Benefits

Dietary Fiber – Dietary Fiber stimulates digestion and peristalsis, helping to relieve indigestion and constipation problems.
Beta Carotene – Beta carotene has been well-studied as a dietary antioxidant. Carotenoids are also thought to benefit eye health. Some studies support a role of carotenoids in reducing macular degeneration.
Potassium – Potassium is an essential mineral which aids in fluid regulation, protein synthesis and cardiovascular health. High levels of potassium are associated with reduced risk for stroke, improved blood pressure control as well as bone health.
Iron –Iron, found in red blood cells, is an integral part of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin carries oxygen from the lungs to the cells. Iron is an essential component of many enzymes necessary for various chemical reactions in the body.

Season

Apricots mature in the early fall, and can be found in most farmers markets and retail shops from August to November. Since apricots are grown around the world, they can be found in your local supermarket year round.

Nutrition Information

Per 1 Apricot (35 grams):

Calories (cKal): 17
Protein (grams): .49
Total Fat (grams): .14
Carbohydrates (grams): 3.89
Fiber (grams): .7

Buying and Storing

When buying an apricot, make sure the fruit is soft to the touch to assure you buy a ripe fruit. Also, make sure the fruit is lacking any holes, since this might indicate infestation. When storing at home, leave the fruit on your countertop until it becomes completely ripe, at which time you should place the apricot in your refrigerator for up to one week. Dried apricots can last in your kitchen for months at a time.

Best Way to Add to Diet

Apricots are best enjoyed as a raw fruit or dried fruit. Additionally, apricots make a great addition to cakes, muffins and ice cream. Apricots, served with walnuts and salad greens, make a wonderful summertime treat.