An apricot is a golden orange-colored fruit that closely resembles a peach. Apricots fall into the category of drupe fruits, which mean, they can be consumed in both dry and fresh forms. They are delicious and sweet-tasting fruits that can be relished as a dessert after a meal. Apricots are high in nutritional value and can offer pregnant women key vitamins and minerals needed during the phase. Dry apricots are the most popularly consumed form of fruit in India, as the fresh versions are not easily available. They are rich in iron, magnesium, calcium and even dietary fiber. Read on to know more about the apricot benefits in pregnancy.

Is Apricot Safe During Pregnancy?

It is a common question that whether it is safe to consume apricots during pregnancy. Apricots are safe to be consumed during pregnancy and can be quite beneficial when has regularly. However, be sure to remove the bitter-tasting tip of the apricot, which contains a harmful ingredient called “amygdalin” which can cause stomach upset and nausea.

See More: Almond Milk During Pregnancy

Benefits of Apricot During Pregnancy:

1. Dried Apricots contain high quantities of iron and copper. During pregnancy, a woman is prone to anemia and oxidative stress. Dried apricots during pregnancy help in hemoglobin production plus the absorption of iron through its rich copper content.

2. Folic acid in apricots aids in the prevention of certain birth defects in newborn babies, such as spina bifida.

3. A pregnant woman needs around 300 calories to support her developing fetus. Apricots in the daily diet help in the uniform distribution of such calories in the mother’s body.

4. The high fiber and starch content in this fruit helps in proper digestion and controlling of hemorrhoids plus constipation in expecting mothers.

5. The rich content of vitamins and minerals helps in the overall development of the fetus. Apricots are also rich in retinol.