Apricots are a stone fruit. When dried they make a great snack. Although they are fairly high in natural sugars being an unmodified whole food they are very healthy.
They have a beautiful sweet taste.
Five apricots contain about the same number of calories as one apple, the bonus is that they contain much more nutrients and are high in fibre.
Health Benefits:
Vitamin K is known for its benefit in blood coagulation. This prevents blood loss during injury. It has also helps prevent coronary artery calcification which is very beneficial for people suffering from heart disease.
Iron is a big benefit of dried apricots. Consuming 5 dried apricot halves a day goes a long way to supplying your iron requirement. Eating foods that contain iron is important as the body is unable to produce iron. It must be absorbed from the foods that you consume.
Calcium is important in maintaining bone density. Just two apricot halves contain 57 grams calcium. For this reason apricots can be important in preventing osteoporosis.
Potassium is important in controlling hypertension. A 100 gram serving of dried apricots is equivalent to around half the recommended daily intake.
Vitamin A and Beta Carotene promotes healthy eyes and healthy skin. Beta Carotene is an antioxidant, boosting the immune system and eliminating free radicals that protect against toxins, cancer, colds, flu and infections.
Warning: In commercial dried apricots, sulphur dioxide is used when dehydrating the fruit. People that are sensitive to this preservative may experience asthma attacks. It is best to dehydrate at home using a dehydrator. When dehydrating apricots mix 4 parts water and 1 part lemon juice. Soak the apricot halves for 5 min to prevent oxidation. Once soaked dehydrate as you would any other fruit.