Peaches belong to the category of stone fruits. They are typically round or oval and have soft, velvety skin that is yellow or pink. The flesh of a peach is soft and delicate and is either white or yellow. Peaches are often enjoyed fresh, canned, or baked into pies or other desserts.
Peaches are also a great source of nutrition which contain fibre, vitamins A and C, and potassium. They also contain phytochemicals that have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
What are the health benefits of peaches?
1. Rich in vitamins and minerals
Peaches are a good source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and magnesium. Vitamin A is important for vision and the immune system, while vitamin C is an essential nutrient that promotes healthy skin and weight loss.
2. May improve blood sugar control
The fibre and antioxidants in peaches may help improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes. In one study, people with type 2 diabetes who ate two peaches per day for eight weeks had lower blood sugar levels than those who didn't eat peaches.
3. May protect against cancer
The antioxidants in peaches may help protect against some types of cancer, such as ovarian cancer, breast cancer, and colon cancer. In one study, women who ate most foods rich in carotenoids, such as peaches, had a lower risk of ovarian cancer. Peaches also have polyphenols and caffeic acid that may inhibit the multiplication of cancer cells.
4. May help improve heart health
Fibre, potassium, and vitamins in peaches may help improve heart health. Potassium, polyphenols, and other bioactive compounds present in them may help reduce the risk of various cardiovascular diseases.
5. Help reduce inflammation
Vitamin C and carotenoids in peaches can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. This can be helpful for conditions like arthritis and asthma. One study concluded that eating carotenoid-rich food reduced pain and inflammation in arthritis patients.
6. Boost brain health
Peaches have high amounts of antioxidants, vitamin C, vitamin B3, folate, and other bioactive compounds. Vitamin C and B3 improve cognitive function and folate may reduce the risk of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's and macular degeneration.
What is the nutritional value in peaches?
The nutrient value of 100 g of peaches according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is as follows:
Water: 88.9 g
Energy: 39 kcal
Carbohydrate: 9.54 g
Fibre: 1.5 g
Sugars: 8.39 g
Calcium: 6 mg
Magnesium: 9 mg
Phosphorous: 20 mg
Potassium: 190 mg
Vitamin C: 6.6 mg
Vitamin E: 0.73 mg
Vitamin A: 326 IU
What do peaches do for your body?
Peaches are a good source of vitamins A and C, fibre, antioxidants, and other essential nutrients your body requires. Some research suggests that eating them may help lower your risk of certain diseases, such as heart disease and cancer.
The antioxidants in peaches can help protect cells from damage, which can lead to cancer. Additionally, antioxidants also prevent fine lines and wrinkles and give your skin a healthy glow.
Vitamin C is a well-known immunity booster, and peaches are packed with it. Just one peach can give you 16% of your daily recommended intake of Vitamin C. Eating peaches can help keep your bones strong as they are a good source of Vitamin K, which is essential for bone health.
Peaches can help with weight loss because they are high in fibre and low in calories. Consuming fibre makes you feel full, so you are less likely to overeat. It also keeps your digestive system healthy by adding bulk to the stool, which helps keep things moving along smoothly.
Eating peaches may improve your mood. Vitamins C and B6 in peaches tend to reduce stress and anxiety.
What are the side effects of peaches?
There are a few potential side effects of eating peaches. These include digestive issues like gas and bloating, as well as allergies. Some people may also experience skin irritation after eating or handling peaches.
Who should not eat peaches?
There are a few groups of people who should avoid eating peaches. People with known allergies to peaches should avoid them. In addition, people with certain medical conditions such as gastrointestinal issues, diabetes, and kidney problems may want to avoid peaches due to their high sugar and acid content.
What happens if you eat a peach every day?
If you eat a peach every day, you will get a lot of fibre, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytonutrients. Peaches are also a good source of potassium, which is essential for healthy blood pressure. As peaches are a low-calorie fruit, you will not gain weight from eating them every day.
Is it good to eat peaches at night?
Eating peaches at night is safe, but you should avoid them if you want to lose weight. Sugars in peaches may spike your energy levels too.
