Apricots are a common food that can be easily found in most local grocery stores. While they are often chosen as a snack food, many people are unaware of the nutritional quality of these pieces of fruit. Apricots are high in fiber and water. However, the high vitamin C content can make them a great choice for someone who is suffering from a weakened immune system.

Fiber Content of Apricots

One of the most important components of apricots, from a nutritional standpoint, is their fiber content. Apricots are very rich in this nutrient, which is important in managing body weight, lowering high blood pressure, controlling diabetes and even aiding in the prevention of stroke and health attack. High fiber diets are often prescribed for individuals who are suffering from constipation or other conditions of the digestive tract. For best results when choosing apricots for their fiber, be sure to purchase them in their most natural form.

Sugar Content of Apricots

While apricots are very high in dietary fiber, they are also high in sugar. Though sugar tastes great, its consumption can lead to many serious health conditions, including the development of obesity, the progression of diabetes and other life-altering conditions. If you are really craving apricots, be sure to choose them in the fresh versus dried states. Per gram, dried apricots contain significantly more sugar than those in the fresh form. This is due to the fact that the removal of water from the dried apricots increases the content of all of the other nutrients in the fruit, including sugar.

Water Content of Apricots

When determining whether or not apricots are right for you, you must also consider the high water content of the fruit. As our bodies are composed almost entirely from water, it should come as no surprise that we need high amounts of this fluid in order to live healthy, normal lives. Water is not only essential to help in the prevention of thirst, but also has many physiologic functions. The absence of water can leave you feeling sluggish, tired, and you may also experience a decreased mental capacity. Fresh apricots contain much more water than their dried alternatives. Therefore, if you are especially interested in this aspect of apricots, it is essential to purchase them in the fresh form.

Vitamin Content of Apricots

Apricots are high in a number of vitamins and minerals. On the top of the list of the vitamins and minerals contained in apricots is vitamin C, which is essential in the prevention of colds, coughs and other flu-like conditions. Vitamin C can increase the integrity of the immune system to such a degree that it is able to fight off even more serious, life-threatening illnesses.