Qubani (Dry Apricot)

Benefits of dried apricots

We know they’re good for us, but what are some of the health benefits of dried apricots? We’ve listed the top ten benefits for you below.

1. Improved eye health

In a 100g serving of dried apricots there’s approximately 1280 IU of vitamin A and 1.53mg of vitamin A.⁶

These nutrients are essential for maintaining eye health.^7,8

In particular, vitamin A helps with night vision whereas vitamin E helps to protect the eyes against damage from free radicals.^9,10

2. Cell protection

In addition to this, dried apricots also contain a specific type of antioxidant called flavonoids, including chlorogenic acids, catechins and quercetin.⁷

These are an important component in the neutralisation of free radicals, which can lead to oxidative stress which has been linked to obesity and chronic conditions like heart disease.^11,12,13

3. May support immune system

As dried apricots are high in vitamin A, they may could also help with supporting the immune system too.

One research paper studied the link between vitamin A and the immune system which highlighted how vitamin A is known as an anti-inflammatory vitamin because of it’s role in enhancing immune function.¹⁴

4. Improved heart health

Another benefit is that dried apricots may be beneficial for heart health. One of the ways in which it supports heart health is through the flavonoids (as mentioned earlier in the article).

But another way that dried apricots help in this area is through the potassium content, as a diet that is low in potassium has been linked to cardiovascular disease.¹⁵

5. Better digestion

In just one 100g serving of dried apricots there is approximately 2.6g of fibre.¹⁶

A recent study concluded that dietary fibre has the potential to change the gut microbiota as well as being able to alter metabolic regulation.¹⁷

6. Reduced risk of diabetes

Remember those flavonoids we’ve mentioned a couple of times in this guide? Well, they’re coming in handy again, this time for diabetes.

One 2019 study stated that flavonoids improve the pathogenesis of diabetes and the complications that come with it by regulating the glucose metabolism, hepatic enzyme activities and a lipid profile.¹⁸

7. Improved bone mineral density

Another key nutrient that apricots contain is boron, which may have beneficial effects on bone formation.

In addition to this, a low boron intake reduces calcium and vitamin D levels which can affect bone mineral density.¹⁹

8. Supports skin health

Dried apricots are also a good source of beta-carotene, which the body automatically converts into vitamin A (retinol).²⁰

Retinol or retinoids are known to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, which contributes to good skin health and appearance.

9. May reduce blood pressure

Since dried apricots contain potassium, they may be able to reduce blood pressure levels. Studies have shown that potassium could reduce high blood pressure in patients with hypertension (high blood pressure).²¹

10. Helps to fight anaemia

100g of dried apricots contains 1mg of vitamin C as well as 2.66mg of iron.

The combination of these two nutrients contribute to a higher absorption of iron, which is needed to prevent anemia.²²