Apricot is a fruit with a ton of health benefits and has been growing in popularity. However, One thing we do know is that Apricots have a perishable nature, and thus contain a shorter shelf-life. Let’s dive into how these juicy wonders can be stored in a way that can brighten up your health and your life. This article will contain everything you should know about dried apricot.
Difference between Fresh and dried apricots
Both fresh and dried apricots offer special advantages of their own. They are an excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin A in fresh apricots.
Additionally, fiber in dried apricots can help with digestion and increase feelings of fullness.
Moreover, the concentrated nutrients found in dried apricots include fibre, potassium, iron, and antioxidants.
In contrast to fresh apricots, they have more calories and sugar. The decision between fresh and dried apricots ultimately comes down to taste preferences and nutritional requirements.
Nutritional Composition of dried apricot
Dried apricots are rich in vital nutrients. They are a rich source of potassium, fiber and several other nutrients.
100 grams (30 pieces) of dried apricots contain :
- Â Calories 241
- Â Protein 4g
- Â Fat 5g
- Â Carbohydrates 63g
- Fiber 3g
- Potassium 160 mg
- Calcium 55 mg
- Iron 3mg
- Magnesium 32 mg,
- Phosphorus 71 mg
- Vitamin A 180 mg
- Folate 10 mg
Methods for drying of apricots:
Apricots can be dried through different methods, all of which are rather simple! It is so comforting to know that minimal nutrients are lost during the drying process of apricots.
Sun-Drying
For this method, the apricots must be spread out on a tray that allows air to the fruit. After removing the pits, allow them to dry for three to seven days.
Use an Oven
This is among the simplest techniques! Fruit should be cleaned, dried, and layered on a tray without pits or stalks. When the skins start to shrivel up, turn the heat up a little bit and continue drying them on low. To let the moisture go, you can keep the oven door slightly open.
Use a Food Dehydrator
One of the easiest methods is to use a food dehydrator to dry your apricots. All you have to do is arrange them in layers and let the machine work! When they’re finished, store them at room temperature.
Natural vs sulphur dried apricot
Sulphur Dried: If may be familiar with this particular type of yellow or golden apricot. They are with sulphur dioxide to ensure color retention and extended shelf life.
Natural Dried: The apricots with a darker appearance are dried in the sun without being treated with SO2. They are excellent for snacking or adding to your cooking recipes.
Top 10 Benefits of Dried Apricot
- Dried apricots are packed with vitamins A, C, and E, which are crucial nutrients for maintaining healthy vision. Consuming apricots on a daily basis might enhance your general eye health and protect your eyes from age-related issues.
- A cup of dried apricot contains 3.5 milligrams of iron. While they may not meet your daily nutritional requirements for iron, apricots have the added benefit of vitamin C, which enhances the absorption of iron in our bodies.
- Dried apricot contains three times more potassium than bananas and contain only a trace of salt that helps to regulate blood pressure. Potassium has water-retaining properties than sodium, which can lower your blood pressure. You can get around 259mg of potassium for every 3.5 ounces of apricots.
- Dried apricots are superfoods for your digestive system. Slicing one cup of skin-on apricots provides 3.3 grams of fiber. This is excellent for your digestion as it helps to maintain a healthy gut, avoid digestive problems, and regulate bowel movement. Soluble fiber in apricot can assist in controlling blood sugar, and cholesterol levels and relieve constipation.
- Dried apricots are rich in antioxidants, reducing the risk of diseases such as heart disorders, and cancer. Potassium in dried apricots acts as an electrolyte and mineral that helps maintain ideal fluid balance, controls heart rate and aids in healthy muscular function.
- Dried apricots are low in calories and high in fiber, which helps aid in your weight loss journey.
- Apricot is a rich source of vitamin E, which is necessary for wholesome hair, that’s why apricot is a common ingredient in hair oils. It nourishes the scalp and prevents issues, including eczema, dandruff, and itchy scalp.
- Dried apricots are a great source of carbohydrates, which can provide a quick energy boost when you need it.
- Apricots contain citrate, which is a compound that binds to calcium and prevents it from crystallizing in the urine.
- Apricots contain potassium, which relaxes the smooth muscles of the bronchi and bronchioles and opens up the airways. Apricots also contain antioxidants and phytochemicals that reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the lungs (1).
What’s the Recommended Intake of Dried Apricot?
The exact dosage of recommended dried apricots is not available. However, a half cup of dried fruit is equivalent to a full cup of fresh fruit when it comes to fruit consumption. Therefore, you might want to start with half a cup of dried apricots per day.
 Side Effects of Dried Apricot
Despite its benefits, excessive consumption of dried apricots can be detrimental. Side effects from apricot only appear when you exceed a certain amount. An excess amount may cause:
- Sweating
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Losing consciousness
Conclusion
To sum up, dried apricots are a tasty, wholesome snack with a number of health advantages. Therefore, the next time you’re looking for a healthy snack, think about picking up a handful of dried apricots. However, apricots must be used in moderation. You can also enjoy dried mangoes if you want to try any other beneficial snack. If you have a specific health issue or following a specific diet plan, You should consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice.
