To those who read my articles, you no doubt noticed that there wasn’t one in September. I was on a much-needed vacation with my family enjoying precious quality time which every family needs — mine was long overdue.

Let's continue with more information on the nutritious foods that God has given us. “...and every tree whose fruit yields seed; to you it shall be for food." It is believed that apricots, not apples, grew in the Garden of Eden. Biblical scholars say that the ancient word we translate as apples actually referred to what we now call apricots. Contemporary scientists who study longevity, point to the Hunza people of the Indian/Pakistani/Tibetan regions in the Himalayans as one of the longest-lived peoples on the earth, with life spans reaching 130 years plus. Their diets include huge amounts of apricots and yogurt but virtually no meat. Researchers believe there is a strong connection between apricots and the Hunza life span.

Experts also say apricots provide protection against cancer because of their high beta carotene content, the nutrient that the body transforms into vitamin A. The National Cancer Institute says beta carotene is a potent cancer inhibitor. Some vital statistics are: Calories: 17 per apricot; Fat: 0.4 grams; Vitamins: A (2,769IU of beta carotene or over a half day’s supply); 11 milligrams of vitamin C and some B vitamins. Minerals include calcium and potassium. If when shopping for apricots you find that fresh ones aren't available, you may buy them canned (packed in water) or dried. This is one fruit thats goodness even survives processing. May God bless you with vibrant health.