Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Apricots are justified for use in supporting or treating night blindness primarily based on scientific evidence, though the strength of the evidence is moderate. Night blindness, or nyctalopia, is most commonly caused by a deficiency in vitamin A, which is essential for the synthesis of rhodopsin, a photopigment in the retina necessary for vision in low-light conditions. Apricots are a rich source of provitamin A carotenoids, particularly beta-carotene, which the body can convert to active vitamin A (retinol). Several clinical and epidemiological studies have shown that diets rich in carotenoids from fruits and vegetables, including apricots, can help prevent vitamin A deficiency and its manifestations, such as night blindness. The World Health Organization recommends vitamin A supplementation or increased dietary intake of vitamin A-rich foods to combat night blindness, especially in populations at risk of deficiency. However, while apricots contribute to vitamin A intake, direct clinical trials specifically investigating apricot consumption and improvement in night blindness are limited. Most available evidence relates to vitamin A or beta-carotene intake in general. Traditional medicine systems, such as Ayurveda, also mention apricots for eye health, but the primary justification remains scientific due to their nutrient content. Therefore, apricots can play a supportive role as part of a balanced diet, but should not be relied upon as a sole treatment for night blindness in cases of clinical deficiency.

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