Eat apricots for bright eyes

TOI

19 Jul 2012: Nutrients in apricots can help protect the heart and eyes, as well as provide the disease-fighting effects of fibre. The high beta-carotene content of apricots makes them important heart health foods.

 

Apricots contain nutrients such as vitamin A that promote good vision. Vitamin A, a powerful antioxidant, quenches free radical damage to cells and tissues. Free radical damage can injure the eyes’ lenses.

 

The degenerative effect of free radicals, or oxidative stress, may lead to cataracts or damage the blood supply to the eyes and cause macular degeneration. Researchers who studied over 50,000 registered nurses found that women who had the highest vitamin A intake reduced their risk of developing cataracts by nearly 40%.

 

Apricots are a good source of fibre, which has a wealth of benefits. These include preventing constipation and digestive conditions such as diverticulosis.

 

A healthy, whole-foods diet should include apricots as a delicious way to add to your fibre intake of the body.