10 fun and interesting Apricots facts

1. Chinese believe apricots have fertility-enhancing powers

The Chinese have long held a special reverence for apricots, referring to them as the 'moons of the faithful'. This is due to the belief that apricots have the power to enhance fertility in women, a notion that has been passed down through generations. In traditional Chinese medicine, apricots are used to treat a variety of ailments, including infertility, and are thought to be a powerful symbol of fertility and abundance.

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2. Powerhouse of Nutrition & Zinc for Thinking!

The humble apricot is a powerhouse of nutrition, containing the mineral zinc which has been scientifically proven to sharpen thinking by up to 15%. This mineral is essential for cognitive development, and is found in many foods, but apricots are one of the most concentrated sources. Eating just a few of these delicious fruits can give your brain a boost, making them a great snack for students or anyone looking to sharpen their mental acuity.

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3. Europe and China Value Apricots for Different Reasons

In Europe, apricots have long been considered an aphrodisiac, believed to increase libido and sexual desire. Meanwhile, in China, the apricot kernel has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, believed to have a range of health benefits, from aiding digestion to boosting the immune system. It's no wonder that apricots have been so highly prized in both cultures for so long!

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4. Hercules' 12 Labors: Apricots

In Greek mythology, apricots are believed to be the 'golden apples' that Hercules was tasked with picking as part of his 11th labor. This labor was one of the 12 labors Hercules was required to complete in order to atone for his sins. The myth states that Hercules had to pick the golden apples from the Garden of the Hesperides, which was guarded by a dragon.

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5. Low-calorie, nutrient-rich snacks

Delicious and nutritious, apricots are a great snack for those looking to stay healthy. Each apricot contains less than 20 calories and is almost entirely fat free, making them one of the most nutritious fruits available. Not only are they low in calories, but they are also packed with essential vitamins and minerals, such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium. So, if you're looking for a healthy snack, reach for an apricot!

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6. National Apricot Day

Every year on January 9th, National Apricot Day celebrates the sweet and tangy fruit that is harvested from May to August. Apricots are a popular summertime snack, and they are known for their bright orange color and juicy texture. They are a great source of vitamins A and C, and they are also high in fiber and antioxidants. Whether you enjoy them fresh off the tree or dried and sweetened, apricots are a delicious and nutritious treat.

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7. Dietary Fiber for Constipation & Diarrhea

Apricots are a great source of dietary fiber, making them an ideal choice for those looking to improve their digestive health. Not only do they provide a good amount of fiber, but they can also be used to help relieve constipation or induce diarrhea. This makes them a great choice for those looking to regulate their digestive system.

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8. A type of fruit with a hard seed in the center

Apricots are a type of stone fruit, along with cherries, plums, and nectarines. All of these fruits have a hard, inedible seed in the center, making them distinct from other types of fruits. Apricots are a particularly popular stone fruit, with their sweet, tangy flavor and soft texture.

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9. A Potassium Powerhouse for Cardiovascular Health

Apricots are a powerhouse of health benefits, with their high potassium content helping to regulate blood pressure, keep cholesterol levels normal, and even prevent heart disease. Potassium is an essential mineral for the body, and apricots are a great source of it, making them an ideal snack for those looking to improve their cardiovascular health.

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10. Turkey leads the world in apricot production

California is the top producer of apricots in the United States, with its warm, sunny climate and rich soil providing the perfect conditions for growing the sweet, tangy fruit. However, when it comes to apricot production on a global scale, Turkey takes the lead, producing an estimated 1.2 million tons of apricots each year. This is due to the country's ideal climate and soil, as well as its long history of cultivating the fruit.