Do not let the tiny size of apricots fool you; these are tiny super fruits that are packed with lots of essential vitamins, low fat and fiber. A single apricot has about sixty calories; surely this tiny fruit deserves more attention.

Reasons You Should Eat Apricots

Vitamin A

These tiny fruits have plenty of vitamin A. By now you already know that vitamin A is good for your eyesight but this is not the only benefit it gives your body. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that is vital for:

• Normal vision
• Reproduction
• Healthy skin, soft tissue, skeletal tissue and teeth
• Proper function of the immune system

Research is still ongoing to confirm whether Vitamin A prevents cancer and age-related eye problems. Men are recommended to consume 900 micrograms of vitamin A and women should consume 700 micrograms every day. A single serving of sliced apricots has 158 micrograms of vitamin A.

Potassium

These fruits also contain loads of potassium, a mineral that allows your body to have proper fluid balance, normal heartbeat and muscle functions. This mineral also plays a significant role in ensuring strong bones and proper digestion of food. Studies have shown that consuming the right amounts of potassium cuts the chances of having a stroke and also maintaining normal blood pressure.

Adults should take 4.700 milligrams of potassium each day. A single serving of sliced apricots has about 427 milligrams.

Fiber

This tiny super fruit has plenty of both soluble and insoluble fiber but soluble fiber exists in larger amounts. Fiber is ideal for maintaining cholesterol and blood sugar levels. A one cup serving of apricots contains about 3.3 grams of fiber. Women should have 50g of fiber a day while men should have 38g.

Some Tips for Picking Apricots

• Always buy fresh fruits; fresh apricots should have bright yellow color.
• Choose carefully; check for plumpness on each fruit and don’t buy pale yellow or green fruits.
• Give each fruit a sniff; apricots should have a sweet fragrance.