Apricots: Complete Mineral Profile

Apricots ‐ Mineral Information

Introduction

Apricots are a small, delicious fruit used in many food items and recipes. They have a smooth texture and sweet taste due to their high sugar content. Apricots are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals that are essential for optimal health. The nutrients present in apricots provide numerous health benefits and can help to improve overall well-being. This paper will explore the different minerals obtained from eating apricots, along with their functions in the body and how they impact our health.

Minerals Obtained From Eating Apricots

The minerals found in apricots come from trace elements in soil which plants use to grow. These minerals are important for our bodies as they play key roles related to bone formation, physiological processes, metabolism, cell repair, circulation, nerve transmission and more. With the consumption of apricots, we can reap the rewards from these essential minerals and promote healthy functioning throughout our entire body.

Calcium

One of the most recognized minerals found in apricots is calcium. It is necessary for strong bones and teeth, growth, muscle contraction, and regulation of the heartbeat. In addition, it helps to control levels of sodium, potassium and other substances in the blood and assists nerve impulse sending. One serving of apricots provides 27 mg of calcium, which is roughly 2 percent of the recommended daily intake (RDI) amount for adults. For those trying to obtain enough calcium through diet alone, foods such as dairy products or dark green vegetables should be consumed in conjunction with apricots to meet RDI recommendations.

Iron

Another mineral found in apricots is iron. Iron is critical for transporting oxygen around the body via haemoglobin and helping the immune system function normally. It has been proven to enhance energy production and reduce fatigue. A single portion of apricots yields 1.16 mg of iron, equal to 14% of the recommended daily value. Low iron intake can lead to anaemia, characterised by a lack of red blood cells, so eating apricots as part of a balanced diet could be beneficial.

Potassium

The third notable mineral present in apricots is potassium. Potassium works to keep your muscles, nerves and heart functioning properly. Its main role is to maintain electrolyte balance in tissues and facilitate proper digestion. Around 187 mg per 100 gram of apricot flesh is available when served fresh, cooked, dried or canned. That translates to 4–5% of the dietary reference values (DRV).

Magnesium

Magnesium is commonly known as ‘nature’s tranquiliser’ due to its ability to relax muscles and nerves by increasing serotonin levels. It also helps regulate insulin for better glucose metabolism, aids protein synthesis and forms part of the enzymes involved in DNA replication. Magnesium is found in apricots at 7.2mg/100g, or 5% DRV, making them a moderate contributor to overall magnesium needs.

Zinc

Zinc is a vital trace mineral needed for numerous functions including digestion and absorption of food, hormone balance, immunity, cell division and development. Eating apricots contributes 2.4mg/100g, or about 20% DRV towards zinc requirements.

Other Minerals Found In Apricots

Aside from the major minerals mentioned above, apricots contain several additional, minor minerals like manganese and selenium. Manganese acts as antioxidant and helps support enzyme activity while selenium plays an important role in shielding against cognitive decline and cancer. Other trace elements like copper and phosphorus may also be ingested through the consumption of apricots.

Conclusion

Overall, apricots contain a myriad of micronutrients that are extremely important for human health. The most prominent minerals include calcium, iron, phosphorus, magnesium and zinc but there are many others present in smaller quantities. These minerals have individual roles in metabolism, reproduction, growth, digestion, clotting and maintaining acid-base balance. Therefore, consuming apricots regularly as part of a nutrient-rich diet can offer a range of health advantages.