1 raw zhuu (apricot) = 60 calories low in fat high in fibre, and lots of vitamins

Originally from China made their way into the Persian Empire and onto the Mediterranean via the Silk Road

Apricots are mostly water so they lose ¾ their weight when dried. Dried apricot is a rich source of fibre and iron, potassium and antioxidants

Fresh apricots are high in Vitamin C and rich in plant antioxidants, including polyphenolic antioxidants (flavonoids) linked to the reduction of heart disease in humans

Rich in vitamin A …great for eyesight.

Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin, naturally found in many foods.  Vitamin a is important for normal eyesight vision, reproduction, healthy skin, good immune system, teeth, bones and muscles.

The vitamin A found in the Apricot is provitamin A found in plant-based foods. Its dietary supplement is beta-carotene.

There is much research as to the benefits of vitamin A in the prevention of cancer and age related eyesight disorders. Apricots are rich in carotenoids and xanthophylls, nutrients researchers believe to be the reason for this.

• Cup of apricots contain 158 micrograms of Vitamin A approx. 1/5 of a women’s daily requirements and 1/6 of men’s daily requirements.

Flavonoids

Apricots are rich in flavonoid phytonutrients known as catechins a potent anti-inflammatory. Catechins are also found in foods like tea and cocoa.  These catchin rich foods can protect blood vessels leading to better blood pressure.

Potassium

A mineral electrolyte helps to maintain fluid balance, muscle function and regular heartbeat, strong bones and digestion.

Potassium can help maintain normal blood pressure and is thought in some cases,  reduce the risk of stroke.

A cup of apricots provides around 427milligrams of potassium approx. 1/10 of an adults daily requirements

Fibre

Apricots contain both soluble and insoluble fibre. High in soluble fibre, which helps with healthy blood glucose and cholesterol.

They are a wonderful natural remedy for constipation