Juicy, sweet and with that summer flavor, apricot is one of those fruits that never misses in my kitchen when the heat arrives. But beyond being delicious, it is a true ally for health: it provides fiber, vitamins and antioxidants that help take care of the gut, protect the skin and combat fluid retention.
And best of all is that it is hardly caloric, so it fits perfectly in a balanced diet.
The apricot, a great ally for digestion and a flat stomach
One of the greatest benefits of the apricot is related to digestive health. Its content of soluble and insoluble fiber promotes intestinal transit and helps prevent constipation. Pectin retains water in the intestine and facilitates evacuation, while cellulose increases the bulk of the stools, improving regularity.
Moreover, this fruit acts as a prebiotic food, since it feeds the beneficial bacteria of the intestinal microbiota. A balanced microbiome not only improves digestion but is also linked to a better mood and lower inflammation.
To this is added its low fructose content, which means that many people tolerate it better than other fruits when there is a tendency to abdominal bloating.
The fruit that can help you achieve a more beautiful tan
The apricot stands out for its high beta-carotene content, a precursor of vitamin A that helps prepare the skin for sun exposure and favors the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for tanning.
Along with beta-carotene, it also provides vitamins C and E, two powerful antioxidants that help combat the free radicals responsible for premature aging of the skin. Vitamin C, furthermore, participates in collagen formation, essential to maintain skin elasticity and firmness.
Although consuming apricots does not replace the use of sun protection, it can form part of a diet beneficial for skin care during the summer.
How many apricots should you eat per day?
Experts recommend consuming between two and three fresh apricots per day, an amount equivalent to about 150 grams. This portion provides around 60 calories and can count as one of the daily fruit servings.
If dried apricots are chosen, the advised amount is between 30 and 40 grams per day, since, being dehydrated, they concentrate more fiber and nutrients. In contrast, apricots in syrup do not offer the same nutritional advantages due to the loss of vitamin C during cooking and their higher content of added sugars.
Thanks to their combination of fiber, potassium, vitamins and antioxidants, apricot stands out as one of the most interesting summer fruits for those looking to take care of their diet without sacrificing flavor.
