Craving something sweet but worried about the extra sugar? Looking for a snack that’s tasty and good for your growing baby?
If you’ve been asking yourself, “What can I eat that won’t spike my sugar levels but still satisfy my cravings?” you’re not alone!
Many moms-to-be deal with the same dilemma. That’s where apricots come in. These small, golden fruits are not only delicious; they’re packed with nutrients that support both your health and your baby’s development.
What Are Apricots? A Nutritional Overview
Apricots are small, golden-orange fruits that belong to the same family as peaches and plums. They’re sweet, slightly tangy, and packed with nutrients that make them a healthy choice, especially during pregnancy.
Whether you enjoy them fresh or dried, apricots are a natural source of essential vitamins, minerals, and fibre. They’re easy to include in your meals and snacks, and they support both your health and your baby’s development. The natural sweetness of apricots comes with very few calories, making them a smart choice for satisfying cravings in a healthy way.
Two fresh apricots (70 grams) contain
- Calories: 34
- Protein: 1 gram
- Fibre: 1.5 grams
- Vitamin A and C: 8%
- Vitamin E: 4%
- Potassium: 4%
- Carbs: 8 grams
Is It Okay to Have Apricots During Pregnancy?
Yes, apricots are safe to eat during pregnancy when consumed in moderate amounts. They offer key nutrients that help keep you and your baby healthy. Eating fresh apricots can help with digestion, boost your iron levels, and support your baby’s development.
However, do not eat the seed inside the apricot. It contains amygdalin. This can turn into cyanide when broken down in the body. Cyanide is harmful and should be avoided.
Stick to eating the fruit only. Limit dried apricots because they are high in sugar and may have preservatives like sulfites. Too many dried fruits can also cause gas or bloating.
Health Benefits of Consuming Apricots During Pregnancy
Apricots provide many health benefits for pregnant women. Here’s how they support your body:
Prevents Anemia
Apricots have iron and vitamin C. Iron helps make red blood cells. Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron better. This reduces the risk of anemia, which is common in pregnancy.
Improves Digestion
Many pregnant women face constipation. Apricots are rich in fibre, which helps food move through the gut. Eating fibre-rich fruits like apricots keeps bowel movements regular.
Supports Baby’s Development
Vitamin A in apricots supports your baby’s eyes, bones, and immune system. It also helps your body fight infections. But don’t take too much vitamin A from supplements; natural sources like apricots are safer.
Protects Cells
Apricots have antioxidants such as beta-carotene and lutein. These fight free radicals in your body. They protect your skin, cells, and tissues during pregnancy.
Maintains Fluid Balance
Potassium helps control the water level in your body. It also balances sodium. This supports healthy blood pressure and helps reduce swelling in feet or hands.
Helps in lactation
Apricots can also help in lactation, so consuming them in moderation can support new moms’ postpartum, particularly milk production and hormone balance.
Dried vs. Fresh Apricots: Which Is Better During Pregnancy?
Fresh Apricots:
Fresh apricots are juicy, naturally sweet, and low in calories. They are rich in vitamins like vitamin A, C, and folate, all of which are important for your baby’s growth. Since they contain a lot of water, fresh apricots help keep you hydrated, which is very helpful during pregnancy.
Dried Apricots:
Dried apricots are simply fresh apricots with the water removed. This makes them smaller and more concentrated in nutrients like iron, potassium, and fibre. Iron helps prevent anemia, which is common during pregnancy. However, dried apricots are also higher in natural sugars and calories, so it’s best to eat them in moderation.
Which is better?
Both are healthy, but each has its advantages:
- Choose fresh apricots if you want a hydrating snack and fewer calories.
- Choose dried apricots if you need more iron and fibre to deal with issues like constipation or low hemoglobin.
Simple Ways to Add Apricots to Your Pregnancy Meal Plan
Pregnant women can eat it raw to get the nutritional value; they can choose dried or fresh apricots for a healthy addition. Women can also consider consuming it as a smoothie along with other fresh fruits and nuts. Finally, apricots can be included with a bowl of cereal or oatmeal, which is a great morning or evening snack.
Consulting Healthcare Providers
While apricots are healthy and delicious, it’s always wise to check with your fertility doctor or a pregnancy dietitian before adding anything new to your daily meals. Why? Because every pregnancy is unique, and what’s great for one mom-to-be may not suit another.
Your healthcare provider can help you:
- Spot any food sensitivities or allergies you might not know about.
- Guide you on the right portion sizes, especially if you’re dealing with concerns like gestational diabetes or anemia.
- Balance your diet so you and your baby get all the essential nutrients without overdoing anything.
Conclusion
Apricots are a healthy and safe fruit to eat during pregnancy. They are full of vitamins, fibre, and iron. Eating fresh apricots can support your digestion, immunity, and your baby’s growth. Dried apricots are also fine, but should be eaten in small amounts due to sugar and preservatives.
Skip the seeds and always choose clean, ripe fruit. When in doubt, ask your doctor for advice.
FAQs
No. There is no link between apricot fruit and miscarriage. But avoid the seed inside, as it can be harmful.
You can safely eat 2–3 fresh apricots or 4–5 dried ones daily. Always drink water when eating dried fruits.
Yes. Dried apricots are high in fibre, which can relieve constipation. Just don’t eat too many at once.
Avoid canned apricots packed in syrup or sugar. They add extra calories and may have fewer nutrients.
Apricots give you vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, fibre, potassium, and antioxidants, all important for a healthy pregnancy.
