Dried apricots: benefits and harm to the human body

Dried apricots is a very valuable and delicious type of dried fruit. For the manufacture of this product, as a rule, large-fruited varieties of apricots are used.

What is dried apricots

Dried apricots is a product obtained by drying halves of apricots previously peeled. Dried apricots are orange, brown and even dark brown. There are various varieties: extra, higher, first, table. Extra-class is characterized by perfectly clean large-sized dried fruits, which have medium elasticity and rigidity, as well as saturated color. It is worth noting that the varieties have different taste qualities depending on the taste of the apricots themselves.

For the manufacture of dried apricots, apricots are halved, the seeds are removed, and then dried. Fruits should be dried in the sun in places that are specially prepared for this. Drying lasts about 7-10 days.

What is the difference between apricots and dried apricots

Unlike dried apricots, apricots undergo drying process in natural conditions for producing apricots. The fruit does not fall off the tree until all moisture leaves it. This helps preserve the product most of the nutrients found in fresh apricot. The resulting product has a saturated brown color as opposed to orange dried apricots.

What is more useful: dried apricots or apricot

Since unnatural supplements are often used to obtain dried apricots, this product contains fewer substances that are beneficial for the body. In addition, apricots are cut into pieces, the integrity of the fetus is violated, so a large amount of nutrients is not preserved.

Natural products are considered the most useful. For example, fresh apricot fruit is more healthy than dried apricots and apricot. But if you compare apricot with dried apricots, the first is considered more useful. The fact is that during the processing the apricot is subject to less intervention, therefore it is possible to maintain more useful properties that the apricot is rich in.

Composition and calorie content

100 grams of product contains:

• calories - 215 kcal;
• proteins - 5.2 g;
• fats - 0.3 g;
• carbohydrates - 51.0 g.

Dried apricots occupies a leading place among products that contain a large amount of potassium, therefore this product is recommended for use in cases of diseases associated with the heart muscle, as well as people who have suffered heart attacks. Dried apricots also contain vitamins A, B1, B2, C, PP, it is rich in minerals: potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus and sodium. Fiber helps stabilize the digestive tract, prevents constipation. Dried apricots also helps the body remove toxins and toxins, cleanses the liver.

What is the use of dried apricots

General benefit

1. Contains potassium. Dried apricots supply the body with a significant amount of potassium, which is necessary to maintain the body's functions. For example, building muscle is an important function that cannot be performed without potassium.
2. Helps increase hemoglobin. With a low level of hemoglobin, the risk of anemia increases. Therefore, you must follow a well-balanced diet that contains minerals such as copper and iron in order to stimulate the production of hemoglobin. These minerals can also be obtained from dried apricots. The inclusion of dried fruits in the diet of patients with anemia can improve their condition.
3. Contains Vitamin K. Vitamin is involved in the process of blood coagulation and prevents excessive bleeding. Dried apricots is an excellent source of vitamin K, so it is highly recommended for use.
4. Regulates blood pressure. Dried apricots contain quite a lot of potassium, so it is suitable as a means to reduce high blood pressure. Studies have shown that potassium is useful for heart disease only if it comes from natural sources, such as dried apricots.
5. Prevents inflammation. Age-related bone diseases, inflammation, arthritis pain and gout deplete the body quite a lot. In such cases, in order to improve the condition, you can include dried apricots in your diet. It has anti-inflammatory properties and does not harm the body.

For women

1. The regular use of dried apricots in food allows you to maintain good physical shape, helps burn fat, makes a female figure more slim. Dried apricots is also a wonderful natural remedy for cleansing the female body and helps to remove toxins from the body.
2. In addition, the product helps to reduce the level of "bad" cholesterol, reduces the risk of atherosclerosis and stroke.
3. For women suffering from constipation, dried apricots are an excellent assistant in the fight against this problem, since the pectin contained in dried apricots helps to cleanse the intestines in a timely manner.
4. This product supports the organs of the reproductive system. Therefore, regular consumption of dried apricots prevents infertility.

For men

Due to its high content of magnesium and potassium, dried apricots maintain heart health and help prevent muscle cramps. Dried apricots are also rich in calcium, which supports bone tissue. It contains a lot of fiber, which normalizes the digestive tract. Normalization of the intestine leads to improved blood circulation in the pelvic organs, which in turn prevents the occurrence of prostatitis and impotence. Dried apricots also helps cleanse the body of salts of heavy metals.

Due to the high fiber content, dried apricots contribute to the activation of blood circulation in the genitals, therefore they support male potency. Normalization of blood circulation in the genital area improves testicular function and positively affects hormonal levels.

During pregnancy

During pregnancy, women are very often craving for various snacks, and dried apricots are an excellent healthy alternative to fatty and salty foods. Pregnant women need to regularly replenish their body with iron in order to avoid the development of anemia. The lack of this mineral can negatively affect the fetus. A handful of dried apricots contains about 15% of the daily norm of iron, as well as a large amount of copper and cobalt.

Dried apricots also contain substances necessary for a pregnant woman, namely folic acid, potassium, calcium and magnesium. One of the common problems during pregnancy is a violation of the processes associated with digestion. Dried apricots helps to regulate the process and prevents the slowdown of the intestines as the child develops.

Important! Eating excessive amounts of dried apricots can lead to an upset stomach, so you need to consume this product in moderation.

When breastfeeding

You can use dried apricots while breastfeeding. Dried fruits contain a large number of useful minerals and vitamins that will help restore the body in the postpartum period. Vitamin C supports a depleted female body, strengthening immunity and protecting against colds. Vitamins of group B establish metabolic processes that help a woman return to her previous form.

Dried apricots also contain vitamin E, thereby restoring the condition of the skin, giving the skin more elasticity. Calcium is involved in strengthening bones and nails, and potassium helps in restoring and maintaining heart function. Magnesium helps a woman cope with postpartum depression.

Dried apricots can be included in the diet 3-4 months after childbirth. In the first step, you need to use a small amount of dried apricots, and then within 2 days to observe the reaction of the baby. If the child reacted normally to the product and did not have colic or allergies, then dried apricots are perceived by the body as expected. In this case, you can use dried apricots up to 3 times a week (no more than 30 g).

Dried apricots are not recommended to be included in the diet in case of problems with the gastrointestinal tract, with diabetes mellitus, obesity, disorders of the cardiovascular system, as well as with edema.

For children

Due to the fact that dried apricots contain a lot of potassium and magnesium, this product is necessary to maintain heart function, especially in children. Phosphorus and B vitamins are involved in the development of the nervous system, support brain health, and help reduce the risk of neurosis. Antioxidants help cleanse the body of harmful substances.

Dried apricots are recommended for children who suffer from anemia, as this product helps maintain normal hemoglobin levels. Dried apricots help relieve constipation. Dried apricots can also be used to maintain the body's functions that protect it from colds.

It is allowed to include dried apricots in the child’s diet, starting from 1 year. If you are prone to allergies, you must postpone the product until the child is 3 years old.

Is it possible to eat dried apricots while losing weight

Despite the fact that dried apricots is a fairly high-calorie product, its use during weight loss is quite acceptable. But in order that this does not slow down the process, but rather accelerates it, some rules must be observed.

1. First of all, you need to observe moderation. If you are not trying to lose kilograms, but just keep in shape, you should not abuse dried apricots, because you can quietly recover for a few extra kilograms, while also getting problems with the gastrointestinal tract. It is recommended to be limited to 30 g of dried fruit per day.
2. It is also worth paying attention to the time of consumption of dried apricots. Since the product is rich in carbohydrates and quite high in calories, dried fruits must be consumed in the morning. It is recommended to eat a serving of dried apricots as a dessert after dinner.
3. Dried fruits help cleanse the body, and also remove excess fluid from it. Therefore, it is necessary to regularly replenish the body with water (from 2 liters per day).

Dried apricots in medicine

With diabetes

With diabetes, dried apricots can bring both benefits and harm. Medicine does not yet have an exact answer to the question of how dried apricots affect the body of diabetics. On the one hand, this product is quite high-calorie and at the same time contains a considerable amount of natural sugars, which can harm the body. On the other hand, the many beneficial substances found in dried apricots can reduce diabetes symptoms and improve well-being. Dried apricots contain about 85% sugar, while the glycemic index of the product does not exceed the norm. Therefore, if you consume dried apricots in moderation, it will only benefit.

It is recommended to eat no more than 2 slices per day. If this limit is exceeded, blood sugar may increase.In case of diabetes mellitus of the second type, dried apricots are recommended to be used only if the product is not prepared industrially. Fresh fruits rather than dried ones would be the best option. In case of diabetes of the first type, the recommended daily dosage is 50 g, of the second type - 100 g.

Important: the glycemic index of dried apricots - 35 units.

With pancreatitis

With a severe exacerbation of this ailment, dried fruits can be used to prepare drinks after a period of fasting. Such drinks are very useful, as they contain a large amount of potassium and sodium. From dried apricots you can also make infusions and compotes. In another form, this product is better not to use, as this can lead to diarrhea, flatulence or intestinal colic. When inflammation begins to decrease, the diet can be gradually expanded. Dried apricots (steamed and mashed) are allowed to be added to mousse, jelly and jelly.

During the rehabilitation period, mashed dried apricots can be consumed as part of sauces or fruit gravy. This will be especially useful for constipation or lack of potassium. During remission, dried apricots can already be consumed with cereals, casseroles, meat dishes, pilaf and pies. In case of impaired glucose metabolism, dried apricots should be reborn.

With an exacerbation of the disease, the daily norm is determined individually, during the period of remission, up to 80 g of dried apricots can be eaten per day.

With gastritis

With gastritis, dried apricots can be eaten, but not during the period of exacerbation. As a rule, dried apricots are replaced by various sweets, which are prohibited for the disease. It is worth noting that eating dried apricots on an empty stomach is prohibited. The daily norm of dried apricots is up to 3 fruits. It is also necessary to pay attention to the composition of products from the store, because the acids contained in dried apricots can cause serious complications of the disease.

For the intestines

Dried apricots weakens and helps in the work of the intestines, therefore, it is an excellent alternative to drug laxatives, which can be addictive. At the same time, medications can act too actively, which will cause discomfort. Dried apricots acts on the body more gently, without causing sharp attacks. It is recommended to use dried fruits before bedtime in order to get the desired result in the morning. Dried apricots are also recommended for people with high acidity, as it affects the gastric juice.

For constipation

Dried apricots contain pectin and fiber, which are not affected by digestive enzymes, so they can freely move along the digestive tract. Dietary fiber contributes to an increase in fecal mass, this stimulates the intestines.

Potassium and pectin help regulate the water balance, therefore they prevent constipation. In order to normalize digestion, you should eat dried apricots at 5-7 slices per day. The main thing is not to abuse it, otherwise stomach discomfort may occur.

With gout

Gout, as a rule, occurs due to a violation of metabolic processes in the body. The kidneys are not able to excrete uric acid, and it accumulates in the joints and tissues. Dried apricots help flush out harmful deposits from the body, and also normalizes the functioning of the kidneys and intestines. But it is worth noting that there are dangers. Dried apricots contain many purine bases, the use of which with gout can cause negative consequences.

For the liver

Recent studies have shown that regular consumption of dried apricots helps to reduce the risks associated with the development of liver cancer. Dried fruits also contain phenolic components that reduce cholesterol in the body, which negatively affects the cardiovascular system and the liver.

With hemorrhoids

Dried apricots are useful for hemorrhoids. It positively affects intestinal motility, since it contains quite a lot of dietary fiber.It can act as a natural laxative, which is also useful for hemorrhoids, since in this case there will be no constipation and feces can calmly leave the body, slightly affecting painful places.

With cholecystitis

With cholecystitis, dried apricots are allowed to be used, since it helps to regulate the functioning of the intestine and normalizes the processes associated with the outflow of bile. An exception is periods of exacerbation of cholecystitis during severe pain.

Recipes of traditional medicine based on dried apricots

Dried apricots has a wide range of healing properties that have been used for a long time in folk medicine. This product is used to prepare various products that help treat many diseases.

For constipation

Drag dried apricots, figs and prunes in equal proportions together through a meat grinder. The tool is taken several times a day for 1 tablespoon. (no more than 4 times a day).

Body cleansing

Drain prunes with dried apricots and walnuts through a meat grinder (2: 2: 1 ratio). Add honey (2-3 tbsp) to the resulting mass. Take the drug in the morning and evening for 1 tbsp. (keep the mass in the refrigerator).

To raise hemoglobin

Grind walnuts with cranberries, dried apricots and prunes in a meat grinder. To the mass add honey (1 cup) and lemon juice (1 cup). The tool is taken after meals in the morning and evening for 1 tbsp.

To normalize the heart

Wash 3 lemons and, together with raisins, prunes, walnuts, dried apricots, dogrose and hawthorn (all ingredients 200 g each), pass through a meat grinder. Add 150 g of honey to the resulting mass and carefully transfer. Refrigerate for 10 days. Consume 1 tbsp. in the morning, before eating.

Dried apricots in cosmetology

Dried apricots contains vitamin A - an element that supports the health of the skin, nails and hair. It is worth noting that the use of dried apricots prevents the appearance of premature wrinkles. Dried apricots contain mineral salts, as well as vitamins B, P, C and beta-carotene, which is also called beauty vitamin. Masks based on dried apricots are suitable for both oily and dry skin. They refresh and soothe, smooth wrinkles. The pulp of these dried fruits can be added to any of the homemade masks.

Harm and contraindications

Dried apricots are contraindicated:

1. With diabetes (in excessive quantities). In fact, dried apricots in most cases with diabetes are allowed, but in limited quantities. It is recommended to consult a doctor so that he determines whether dried fruits can be consumed in a particular case.
2. With hypotension. Dried apricots helps lower blood pressure. In case of hypotension, this product is allowed in very small quantities, if the disease has a pronounced pathology, then the use of dried apricots should be abandoned.
3. With obesity. As a rule, people with overweight are not recommended to eat dried apricots, but sometimes this product can be used as snacks on fasting days.
4. In case of allergies. If, after eating dried apricots, itching, rash or hives occur, it is necessary to take antihistamines and exclude this product from your diet.

Why belly swells from dried apricots
Dried fruits help improve intestinal motility and help relieve constipation, but they can also cause flatulence. The reason is the high content of sugars and dietary fiber, which actively interact with bacteria in the colon. In this case, the digestion of undigested sugar and fiber occurs, resulting in the formation of gases. Therefore, after eating dried fruits, stomach discomfort may occur. In order to avoid this, you should drink more liquid.This will help the intestines function more efficiently, resulting in less bloating.

How to choose and where to store dried apricots

When choosing dried apricots, you should pay attention to such factors:

1. The naturalness of dried apricots can be determined by its color. After drying, the apricots will have a soft brown or brown-orange color. If dried fruits have a bright color, then, most likely, chemical additives were used in the processing of the product - you should not buy such dried apricots.
2. Dried apricots should be sinewy and dry to the touch. In case the product is oily, it is better not to buy it. Dried apricots should not be smeared in a hand. This means that the product was not properly stored or was originally made from low-quality fruit.
3. Dried apricots are usually slightly wrinkled. It is advisable to choose large slices, since the large size indicates the maturity of apricots.
4. Dried apricots should not have a wine aftertaste. If it is present, this means that the manufacturer violated the manufacturing technology, therefore it is forbidden to purchase such a product.

Store dried apricots in a dry, dark and cool room or in the refrigerator.

How to make dried apricots at home

For drying, you should choose a clean place with access to direct sunlight and fresh air. Apricots can be dried on the roof or balcony.

Drying process:

1. Wash the apricots, split them into halves and remove the seeds.
2. Then apricot slices must be placed for several hours in a draft for ventilation.
3. After that put on the grate and place in the sun.
4. At night, it is recommended to clean the apricots in the house.
5. In 10-15 days, dried apricots will be ready.

Apricots can also be dried by stringing them on a twig or thread. With this approach, the fruit will dry even without sunlight, in a light breeze.

How to eat dried apricots

Before eating, dried apricots need to be washed, and can also be soaked so that it is softer. You can eat both in kind (it is important to maintain moderation), and as an ingredient in various dishes. From it you can cook jelly, compotes, make a filling for pies, sweet desserts, cakes and sweets. In eastern countries, it is eaten along with seasonings and spicy mixtures.

Dried apricots are perfect for a meat dish, give it an attractive aroma and a peculiar sweet and sour taste. It can also be consumed with homemade yogurts, fruit salads, milk and dairy-free cereals.

Do I need to wash before use

Dried apricots must be washed before use. Natural, untreated should be washed well under running water, while cleaning it from dirt and dust. In addition, after washing it can also be doused with boiling water. Sulfur dried apricots also need to be washed, but with even greater care. Soak it in water (room temperature) for half an hour, and then rinse well under running water.

How much can you eat per day

The daily intake of dried apricots is up to 100 g. It is not recommended to consume a larger amount of the product, otherwise stomach upset, discomfort or even digestion may occur.

Can I eat at night

In case you are on a diet, dried apricots are not recommended at night, because it is quite high in calories and contains a lot of carbohydrates. In other cases, you can use dried apricots, but you should not overeat.

Delicious recipes with dried apricots

Rice

Ingredients:

• sweet rice - 0.5 tbsp. (200 ml);
• water - 1 tbsp. (200 ml);
• raisins - 25 g;
• dried apricots - 40 g.

1. Rice should be washed several times.
2. Soak the washed rice in water (cold) for 10 minutes. Wash dried apricots and dry. Rinse the raisins, scald and dry.
3. Rice must be poured with water and put on the stove.After boiling, stirring, cook rice on low heat until cooked.
4. Cut dried apricots into small pieces. Raisins can also be crushed if it is large.
5. Put cooked rice on a dish, add dried apricots and raisins, and then mix.

Dried Apricots Jam

Ingredients:

• dried apricots - 500 g;
• sugar - 2 tbsp .;
• water - 3.5 tbsp .;
• lemon juice - 2 tbsp.

1. Dried apricots need to be chopped and placed in a slow cooker. After that pour water, add sugar and mix. Cover and cook for 2 hours. In the process you need to mix the mass well several times.
2. Then add lemon juice to the mixture (you can add oregano) and mix. Put to cook for another 2 hours.
3. Pour jam into prepared jars, roll up and set to cool. You can store in the refrigerator for about 3 weeks.

Compote

Ingredients:

• dried apricots - 300 g;
• sugar - 6 tablespoons;
• water - 2.5 l.

1. Pour dried apricots for 10 minutes with boiling water, then rinse well under running water.
2. Cut dried fruits into halves, put them in a pan and pour cold water.
3. Add sugar to the pan.
4. Stir and cook simmer.
5. After the water boils, you need to cook the compote for another 5-7 minutes.
6. Remove the drink from the stove and leave to cool.

Pilaf

Ingredients:

• long-grain rice - 2.5 tbsp .;
• veal - 0.5 kg;
• carrots - 3 pcs.;
• onion - 3 pcs.;
• butter (ghee);
• dried apricots - 0.5 tbsp .;
• cardamom - 1 pinch;
• cinnamon - 1 pinch;
• saffron;
• sugar, salt.

1. Heat oil in a thick pan.
2. Peel the onions and carrots. Cut carrots into small cubes, onions - into cubes or half rings.
3. Place the carrots and onions in the pan, fry (5 minutes), the oil should cover the vegetables almost completely.
4. Wash the dried apricots and add it to the pan with the meat. Then put spices, sugar, salt and mix.
5. Simmer for about 5 minutes.
6. Rinse the rice well, place it in a pan, add boiling water so that it covers products above 5 cm.
7. Simmer for about 35–40 minutes, control the process by the presence of water (when there is no water left, the pilaf is ready).
8. Mix the pilaf and serve.

Is it possible to give dried apricots to animals

Dried apricots by and large are not harmful to most animals. For example, dogs, and especially puppies, this product can be beneficial. But at the same time, dried apricots can become laxative, so it is worth observing the norm. In addition, dried fruit is sometimes used as a treat during dog training.

If we talk about cats, then they are not recommended to give them dried apricots, since in some cases this product can adversely affect the animal.

Interesting facts about dried apricots

1. If we compare the level of potassium in dried apricots and fresh apricots, then dried fruits significantly exceed the fresh product. 250 g of dried apricots will hold back as much potassium as 1 kg of fresh apricots.
2. Apricots, which are halved and have no seeds, are called dried apricots, and whole fruits that have no seeds are called kaisa.
3. About 300-400 g of dried apricots can be obtained from one kilogram of apricots.
4. The main suppliers of dried apricots are Turkey, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.
5. Dried apricots has a positive effect on the skin and strengthens the hair.
6. According to the level of potassium and magnesium, dried apricots occupies a leading place, so it is recommended for use by people with cardiovascular diseases, as well as during pregnancy.
7. Regular consumption of dried apricots reduces the risk of cancer, as it affects the reduction of cancer cell growth.
8. Dried apricots helps lower blood cholesterol, so the likelihood of blood clots in the vessels also decreases and the risk associated with the development of cardiovascular diseases decreases.
9. While using antibiotics, it is recommended to regularly use dried apricots, as this will avoid the negative effects of chemicals on the body.

Photo of dried apricots