Apricots are one of the soft fruits of summer. The season is short, but fresh apricots are delicious, and they're also very good for you. These are just some of the health benefits of apricots.

Good for the eyes

Apricots are rich in vitamin A, which is essential for eye health. While all fruit is a good source of vitamin A, a serving of apricots provides around 20% of the daily recommended amount for adults. This can guard against macular degeneration, which is the biggest cause of age-related blindness. Apricots can also help prevent cataracts from forming.

Good for the digestion

Apricots are high in fibre, which helps digestion and combats constipation and other digestive-related problems. Apricots can also relieve acidity in the stomach, and calm down flatulence. Eating apricots before a meal helps digestion. Apricots are also known to reduce the size of gallstones, and are natural detoxifyers.

Good for disease prevention

The high beta-carotene and lycopene content of apricots helps prevent heart disease and some cancers. The magnesium in apricots can also help to regulate blood pressure, thus protecting against heart disease. Apricots are also a natural diuretic, which guards against fluid retention. The vitamin A and lycopene content in apricots also boost the immune system, which is the body's first line of defence in the fight against disease and infection, and they regulate blood sugar levels, which is good news for diabetics.

Good for the blood

Apricots are high in iron, which can help to treat anaemia. Apricots also help the body to produce haemoglobin, which can be beneficial to women who have heavy periods. 100 grams of apricots are as beneficial to the blood as 250 grams of liver, and more palatable to most tastes. Apricots are a good food choice for pregnant women as a natural source of iron.

Good for brain health

The magnesium and phosphorous content of apricots helps brain function and can protect against the risk of dementia in later life.

Good for the skin

Make a paste from apricot leaves in your blender and apply topically to sunburn, eczema and other skin conditions for instant relief. Eating apricots also keeps the skin younger looking, due to the high antioxidant content in the fruit.

Good for fevers

Apricots reduce the temperature and increase water content in the body, so they are ideal for treating fevers and infections.

Apricots may be the poor relations on the fruit stall, coming third to peaches and nectarines, but their health benefits put them in the gold medal position. These small fruits are big on health benefits, so add them to your basket next time you shop.