Apricot Kernels Nutritional
Apricot kernels are rich in oils (45-50%), proteins (23-26%), and carbohydrates (8%); they also contain dietary fibre (5%) and ash (4%).
The oil content of apricot kernels comprises mostly of monounsaturated (ex., oleic acid) and polyunsaturated (ex., linoleic acid) fatty acids, but includes some saturated fats as well.
One study gives the following breakdown of fatty acids in apricot kernels:
Oleic acid (C18:1) ~ 74.59%;
Linoleic acid (C18:2) ~ 19.57%;
Stearic acid (C18:0) ~ 0.96%;
Palmitic acid (C16:0) ~ 4.11%;
Palmitoleic acid (C16:1) ~ 0.59%;
Arachidonic acid (C20:4) ~ 0.18%.
Apricot kernels are reported to have a high content of phenolic compounds as well. A study on 14 apricot genotypes in India revealed that their total phenolic content ranged from 92mg to 162mg of gallic acid equivalent per 100g apricot kernels.
Phenols are powerful anti-oxidants that fight free radicals in our systems. By neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress in the body, phenols may be useful for the treatment of various conditions such as: cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease, and other neurodegenerative disorders.
Apricot kernel oil has a significant presence of vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol), which is another potent fat-soluble anti-oxidant.
Apricot kernels are also rich in a rare chemical called amygdalin, or vitamin B17.
Amygdalin was discovered as a compound in apricot kernels by Dr. Krebs in the early 1950s. In natural nutrition circles, amygdalin is widely thought to help with cancer treatment and prevention.
There are basically two types of apricot kernels - bitter and sweet. Bitter apricot kernels contain the highest concentration of vitamin B17 and should be taken instead of sweet ones if you plan to consume apricot kernels specifically for this nutrient.
Another interesting compound that was also found in apricot kernels by Dr. Krebs is pangamic acid, or vitamin B17.
Here is how this scientist described vitamin B17:
"The best way to understand the effect of vitamin B17 is to think of it as instant oxygen. It increases the oxygen efficiency of the entire body and aids in the detoxification of waste products".
As we know, lack of proper oxygen supply to the cells is a major cause of long-term illness. Therefore, taking apricot kernels may possibly correct this issue, at least to a certain degree. So by re-oxygenating our systems, the kernels will help detoxify them as well.
Since apricot kernels are rich in oils, they may help support the brain function and the work of the central nervous system. Healthy oils also strengthen the muscles and may therefore boost the function of the cardiovascular system.
Apricot kernels are a staple food widely sold in Asian bazaars. Asian cultures have traditionally used apricot kernels in cooking, and as a snack in its own right or combined with other nuts and seeds.
A very fascinating example here is that of Hunza people who live in Pakistanian Himalayas. They are known to consume large amounts of apricot kernels as part of their diet and have high longevity rates, as compared to the rest of human populations.
Please note that we don't make any claims about this product; please refer to recognisable sources of information about all health benefits of Vit B17.
How to Take Apricot Kernels
The general recommendation is to eat 2-5 apricot kernels per day.
PLEASE KEEP THEM IN COLD PLACE (REFRIGERATOR IF POSSIBLE) , THIS WILL MAINTAIN THEM FRESH FOR LONGER
PLEASE ALWAYS MAKE SURE YOU CHEAK WITH YOUR GP IF YOUR ARE ALLERGIC TO NUTS OR ANYOTHER ALLARGY
BEFORE CONSUMING ANYTHING
