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Apricots may be small in appearance, but they are packed with flavor and nutrients. Packed with vitamins and minerals, these yellow-orange fruits have a wide range of flavors, ranging from sweet to tart, depending on the variety.
They have a smooth outer surface with a soft fuzz, and when ripe, this surface is smooth and somewhat juicy. Not only the taste, but apricots also have many health benefits.
For example, they are good for the skin, help prevent cancer, anemia and many other health problems.
Prunus armeniaca (apricot) originated in China about 4,000 years ago. This beautiful stone fruit was popular among residents, merchants and travelers there.
So it is no surprise that it began its journey westward along the Silk Road.
Over time, it began to spread throughout Central Asia and the Middle East. There are many types of apricots, the most popular of which are Blenheim, Tilton, and Moorpark.
Types of Apricot
1. Moorpark Apricot
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Moorpark apricots are huge fruits with vivid, golden orange skin. These apricots resemble peaches and are sweet and juicy, with a plum-like flavor. Moorpark apricots are high in vitamins A and C and B-complex vitamins, calcium, copper, iron, and phosphorus.
2. Blenheim Apricot
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The Blenheim apricot is a small green fruit that ripens inside. It never reaches the full apricot color. However, it has a full apricot flavor. The sweet and aromatic flavor of this ancient favorite fruit sets a benchmark.
Its flesh is quite juicy and orange. It is famous in California for its canning quality and is also suitable after drying. During flowering, it requires hot and dry conditions.
3. Tilton Apricot
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Tilton apricots are heart-shaped and have a “suture” line that runs halfway around the fruit. Its color is bright golden with peach blush undertones.
In addition, an excellent feature of the Tilton apricot tree is that it is cold resistant. As a result, this tree is better suited for cold-affected areas and is well suited to a variety of soil types.
You can use Tilton apricots in a variety of ways, from enjoying them in fresh fruit salads to canning them. They also make delicious jams and jellies for dessert.
4. Gold Bar Apricot
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Its skin has a red colour along with yellow-orange colour. It is very big in size.
The fruit has a spherical to oval shape at the top and sides and a compact shape at the bottom. The pulp of the fruit is particularly juicy.
5. Tomcot Apricot
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It has a diameter of 5.4 cm and an oval shape, making it a medium to large-sized fruit. The skin of the fruit is light orange in color. This fruit has light orange colored pulp with a sweet taste. It is not suitable for canning.
Nutritional Value of Apricot in Hindi
According to the US Department of Agriculture, one 35-gram serving of fresh apricots contains the following:
- Energy – 17 calories
- Protein – 0.5 grams
- Fat – 0.15 g
- Carbohydrates – 3.9 grams
- Fiber – 0.7 grams
- Sugar – 3.23 grams
Health Benefits of Apricot
1. Good for Skin
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The antioxidants in apricots, such as vitamin E and vitamin C, are known for their skin-boosting properties. They may help protect skin cells from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, prevent the appearance of early wrinkles and improve skin suppleness.
Beta-carotene is another antioxidant in apricots that protects the skin from sunburn and other UV damage. Apricots are an excellent fruit that helps moisturize your skin with their high water content. One cup of apricots contains about two-thirds of a cup of water.
2. Protects Eyesight
Apricots are rich in vitamin A, beta-carotene, and other carotenoids, making them an ideal fruit for eye health. Lutein promotes retinal and lens health, while carotenoids and vitamin E improve general vision.
These nutrients are also beneficial in reducing the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts.
In a study of over 50,000 registered nurses, researchers found that women who consumed the most vitamin A had a 40% lower risk of developing cataracts. One apricot (about 35 grams) contains 33.6 mg of vitamin A, which is about 5% of your daily intake of vitamin A.
3. May Cure Fever
Apricot juice is usually given to fever patients as it provides the body with essential vitamins, minerals, calories and water. It also helps in detoxifying various organs.
When you are unwell, the soothing and anti-inflammatory properties of apricots can also affect body temperature.
It may also help reduce inflammation in other parts of the body, especially beneficial for individuals suffering from arthritis or gout.
4. May treat Anemia
Apricots contain iron and copper, which help in the synthesis of hemoglobin. As a result, it aids in the treatment of anemia. Anemia is iron deficiency that can cause weakness, fatigue, lightheadedness, digestive problems, and impaired overall metabolic function.
In addition, this leads to insufficient red blood cells. Without red blood cells, the body cannot effectively re-oxygenate itself, and organ systems begin to malfunction.
Iron and copper are essential for the formation of red blood cells. Apricots are a rich source of iron and copper, making them an excellent tool for boosting metabolism and keeping the body healthy.
5. Helps Prevent Cancer
Apricot seeds are beneficial in treating cancer. Several studies directly link apricot consumption to a lower risk of cancer. With their carotenoids and other antioxidant chemicals, it is not surprising that apricots are a threat to free radicals.
Free radicals are harmful byproducts of cellular metabolism that can cause healthy cells to turn into cancer cells by altering their DNA. Antioxidants act as a buffer against these dangerous substances and protect the body from cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and skin aging.
6. Protects the Liver
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According to some research, apricots may help protect the liver from oxidative damage. In two animal studies, rats given apricots along with alcohol showed lower liver enzymes and anti-inflammatory marker levels than rats given just alcohol.
Research suggests that it may help prevent liver damage due to its naturally high antioxidant content.
7. Strengthens Bones
Apricots can contain almost all the minerals necessary for bone growth, such as calcium, phosphorus, manganese, iron, and copper. Therefore, consuming apricots can help maintain the proper growth and development of your bones.
Furthermore, it also helps prevent many age-related bone problems, such as osteoporosis and brittle bone disease.
8. Improves Gut Health
Apricots are high in fiber, which contributes to better gut health. It promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut while improving digestion. Apricots contain both dietary and soluble fiber, which make them easy to digest and contribute to a healthy digestive system.
9. High in Potassium
Apricots are rich in potassium. It acts as an electrolyte in your body. It is responsible for transmitting nerve messages, regulating muscle contractions, and maintaining fluid balance in your body.
Two apricots (70 grams) contain 181 mg of potassium, 4% of the DV. Since potassium works together with salt to maintain fluid balance, it can help prevent swelling and maintain healthy blood pressure when consumed in adequate amounts.
A study of 33 trials found that a potassium-rich diet significantly reduced blood pressure and resulted in a 24% lower risk of stroke.
Ways to Consume Apricots
Apricots are perfectly safe to eat raw. After cleaning the fruit, cut it in half and remove the stone. Apricots, both fresh and dried, taste great with yogurt or porridge, which can be served as breakfast.
According to several studies, freezing or canning apricots does not have any negative effect on the nutritional value of the fruit. So, you can enjoy it however you like.
The study further suggests that people who eat canned or frozen apricots can feel assured of equal or better nutritional content compared to fresh apricots.
Recipes of Apricots in Hindi
1. Apricot Cake
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- Preparation Time – 10 minutes
- Cooking time – 35 minutes
- Serves – 10 people
Material:
- Apricots fresh or canned – 1 cup
- Dates, pitted – 1 cup
- Wheat flour/coconut flour – 0.75 cups
- Almond flour – 1 cup
- Apple juice – 1 cup
- Vanilla essence – 1/2 tsp
- Lemon zest – 1 tsp
Method:
- Cut apricots and dates into small pieces and mix in a bowl with flour, almond powder and lemon zest.
- Make a hole in the centre, add apple juice and vanilla essence and mix well.
- Pour this mixture into a cake tin lined with baking paper.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 170 degrees Celsius for 30-35 minutes or until golden.
- Leave it to cool for 10 minutes and serve hot.
2. Easy Apricot Canapes
- Total time – 5 minutes
- Serves – 16 people (1 each)
Material:
- Dried apricots – 16
- Blue cheese or feta cheese (crumbled) – 8 teaspoons
- Pistachios (chopped) – 0.25 cup
- Honey – ½ tsp
- freshly ground pepper
Method:
- Top each apricot with ½ teaspoon of cheese.
- Garnish with pistachios and honey and then sprinkle black pepper on top.
- Delicious dish is ready to be served.
3. Apricot Strawberry Smoothie
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This smoothie has just the right amount of sweet-tart flavor and the strawberries complement the delicious apricot flavor nicely. This is a healthy, energy-boosting drink full of vitamins A and C and fiber.
Material:
- Coconut water, or filtered water (chilled) – 1 cup
- Strawberries (mashed) – 1 cup
- Apricots (seedless) – 2 cups
- Pineapple (frozen) – 1 cup
- Flaxseed oil – 1 tsp (optional – adds a nice punch of omega 3)
Method:
- Add ingredients in the order listed and blend until smooth.
- Pour into glasses and serve immediately.
Probable Side Effects of Apricot in Hindi
1. Digestive problems
Although apricots are good for digestion and digestive health, they are also high in fructose. Too much fructose causes the release of hydrogen and methane gases, which cause pain, bloating, flatulence and diarrhea.
Therefore, eating too much can cause pain in your stomach. Apart from this, eating too much can cause constipation and digestive problems. So try not to consume too many apricots.
2. Nausea
If you consume apricots in large quantities, you may experience nausea and a tendency to vomit.
Frequently Asked Questions about Apricot in Hindi: Frequently Asked Questions about Apricot in Hindi
1. What are the side effects of apricot? (What are the side effects of apricot in hindi?)
Although apricots are extremely beneficial, eating too much can cause some side effects. Side effects of apricots include nausea and digestive problems such as constipation and stomach pain.
2. When is the best time to eat apricot? (When is the best time to eat apricot in hindi?)
Apricots are a great mid-morning or evening snack as they contain a fair amount of fibre. Plus, they are one of the few foods that contain melatonin, a hormone that regulates your sleep cycle.
3. Can an apricot increase weight? (Can an apricot increase weight in hindi?)
No, apricots are low in calories and will not make you gain weight. Instead, it will help you lose weight, as it is a rich source of fiber. As a result, it improves your gut health.
Low calories and good gut health are important for weight management. But don’t forget that moderation is also important for healthy eating.
4. What are the benefits of dried apricots? (What are the benefits of dried apricots in hindi?)
Dried apricots have many health benefits. For example, it helps your body absorb more nutrients, improves bone mineral density and promotes gut health.
Additionally, it promotes eye health, helps lower blood pressure, and can treat anemia.
5. Can we eat apricots at night? (Can we eat apricots at night in hindi?)
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Eating apricots before bedtime can help regulate your sleep cycle, as they contain melanin, a hormone that regulates sleep. Additionally, they contain potassium and magnesium, which have a calming effect.
However, avoid eating dried apricots at night, as the low water content of dried fruits can cause digestive problems like gas and cramps.
6. Is Apricot good for skin? (Is Apricot good for skin in hindi?)
Yes, apricots contain antioxidants like vitamin E and vitamin C, which improve skin texture. Apart from this, apricots have high water content. So it is a great way to hydrate your skin.
7. Can apricots cause gas problems? (Do apricots give you gas in Hindi?)
Yes, eating dried apricots can cause gas. This is because they contain sugar in the form of fructose. Excessive consumption of fructose and sorbitol can cause digestive problems. Our intestines cannot digest these compounds easily and can cause digestive problems.
8. Do apricots help you lose weight? (Do apricots help you lose weight in hindi?)
Although there is no direct link between apricots and weight loss, they are high in fiber and low in calories, making them suitable for weight loss. In addition, they are a low-calorie fruit, making them an excellent addition to your weight loss diet.
9. Do apricots boost metabolism? (Do apricots boost metabolism in hindi?)
Yes, apricots are rich in potassium, magnesium, and iron. Adding these minerals to your diet increases your metabolism, as they are metabolism-boosting nutrients, and energize your body.
10. Are apricots high in sugar?
No, apricots are not high in sugar. According to the USDA, one fresh apricot has only three grams of sugar. So, when you want to change up your fruit routine while eating something tasty and healthy, they are a great option.
Conclusion (Takeaways)
Like most fruits and vegetables, apricots are a good source of many vitamins and minerals that are essential for our systems to function. It is high in vitamins A and C, dietary fiber, and potassium.
You can eat apricots raw or dried. Freezing or canning the fruit does not reduce its nutrients. However, to maintain the fruit as a healthy addition to the diet, you should use canned fruit juice instead of syrup. The benefits of apricots make them a healthy and balanced diet.