If you’ve ever eaten an apricot, you know how delicious it can be! When you consider its nutrient profile too, you may ask: Can I give my Baby Apricot?
Have you ever bitten into a bright orange apricot? If you have, you know that it’s a feeling like no other! With a combination of sweetness and tartness, these pretty fruits are not just a treat to the palate, but for the entire body, in terms of health benefits.
Apricots are believed to have been around for over 4000 years. Although the origin of the fruit is still unknown, common opinions are that it is from Armenia, China or India. Apricots are summer fruits which belong to the rose (rosaceae) family.
Apricots are not very juicy but have a musky flavor. There are different varieties of apricots which are similar in taste, but differ in size and color, ranging from yellow to deep orange. Some well known varieties of apricots are blenheim, castlebrite, katy, patterson, perfection and tilton.
Apricots are consumed either fresh or processed and are popular across the world. Apricots are also used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes. Due to its numerous nutrients like antioxidants, Vitamins A,C,E and flavonoids, apricots are also popular in traditional Chinese medicine.
Health Benefits of Apricot
- Improves Immunity
- Relieves Constipation
- Maintains Skin Health
- Treats Anemia
- Promotes Eye Health
- Keeps Body Hydrated
- Boosts Digestion
- Treats Respiratory Disorders
- Maintains Eye Heath
- Maintains Heart Health
- Boosts Bone Growth
- Improves Metabolism
- Relieves Inflammation
Can I give my Baby Apricot?
Apricots are among the best foods to help babies with digestive issues. Apricots contain a good amount of soluble fiber which can soften stools and prevent constipation. Apricots can be introduced to babies anywhere around 6 to 8 months, once they’re used to other basic foods.
Apricots can be given to babies directly, without steaming. Organic apricots are the best choice. If you can’t find organic apricots, it’s better to peel the skins off before feeding baby. For babies below 8 months apricots can be given as a nutritious puree whereas for babies above 8 months small pieces of the fruit can be given as a healthy finger food.
While not mandatory, it’s better to follow the 3-day rule to be on the safe side, and start with a small quantity in the beginning. If the baby displays symptoms like watery eyes, canker sores around the mouth, itchy rashes, abdominal pain, burning sensation in the mouth, swelling of the face or shortness of breath, he needs to be rushed to the doctor right away.
Tips for Buying and Storing Apricots
Fresh and dried apricots are commonly available, but fresh fruits are the best option for babies. Even though dried apricots have a better concentration of nutrients, they may also contain added sugars and preservatives like sulphur dioxide. So opt for the unsweetened dried apricots which are free from preservatives.
When buying fresh apricots, go for fruits with a rich orange color which are soft to the touch. Unripe apricots can be stored at room temperature for up to 5 days. Refrigerating slows down the ripening process. Ripe apricots can be kept in a paper bag at room temperature for 2 to 3 days and in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Apricot Recipes for Babies and Kids
- Apricot Pear Puree from Baby Foode
- Apricot Chicken Puree from Kidspot
- Mango Apricot Smoothie from GK Food Diary
- Apricot Halwa from Times of India
- Sweet and Spicy Apricot Chutney from Spices and Aroma
- Homemade Apricot Jam
- Dates Chia Seeds and Apricot Laddu
- Apricot Pudding from A Clean Plate
- Healthy Apricot Balls from Create Bake Make
Dry apricot can be given to 8 months old
Hi,
Yes, but please make sure that it’s free from sugar, salt or preservatives.