Research conducted at Texas A&M University earlier this year has revealed that stone fruits (including apricots, peaches, plums and prunes that have a stone-like seed at their centre) are packed with photochemical, vitamins and essential minerals which prevent micronutrient deficiencies and can give health a boost. These fruit contain bio-active compounds with anti-inflammatory properties; these prevent the oxidation of LDL (bad cholesterol), which often leads to cardiovascular disease.
The fruit provide a substantial amount of the required daily intake of potassium and magnesium, which can help you keep chronic ailment – such as blood pressure and hypertension – at bay. Packing a nutritional punch, make the most of these stone fruit while they are in season:
*Apricots are a rich source of vitamin A, with high beta carotene content that strengthens blood vessels, promotes cell regeneration and prevents cataracts, while vitamin C boosts immunity against degenerative disease. If you are looking for delicious yet low-far fruit, incorporate six to seven fiber-rich apricots in your diet for healthy weight loss.
*Peaches, with their fuzzy, velvet-like skin are loaded with vitamin C as well as anti-oxidizing compounds that increases collagen production, giving your skin a health glow, while selenium helps combat skin cancer-causing free radicals. You can also use peach skin – dried, crushed and mixed with a few drops of milk – as a natural and effective sun block. If applied regularly, this mixture is believed to reduce wrinkles.
*Prunes (dried plums) are an ideal snack when you are craving a sweet fix. High in carbs and fiber, regular consumption of prunes can relieve gastrointestinal distress, although be careful not to have more than five a day, because their acidic content can damage your stomach lining. Like apricots, the vitamin A in prunes boosts optic health, while the presence of soluble fibers delays the absorption of sugar in the body, thereby increasing insulin sensitivity and regulating glucose levels.
By Saba Gul Hasan. The writer is a nutritionist and a wellness coach.