Stock up on peaches this summer

Stock up on peaches this summer


A juicy peach is a sweet snack that tastes great on a hot summer day, but did you know that it has endless health benefits, too?

One raw, medium-sized peach has 50 calories, just point-five grams of fat, and contains two grams of fiber and one gram of protein. It also provides 6 percent of your daily vitamin A recommended intake and a whopping 15 percent of daily vitamin C recommended intake.

Vitamin C, a strong antioxidant, can reduce wrinkles, improve skin texture and fight skin damage from sun and pollution. Although supplements are available, vitamins are best consumed in whole, raw foods, like peaches.

Peaches have been shown to ward off obesity-related diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Peaches can also help fight the formation of free radicals known to cause cancer.

So how do peaches work their magic? Experts say that incorporating more fruits and vegetables into your diet is one of the best ways to lower calorie intake and increase fiber. Fruits and veggies are also rich in potassium, which can help lower a person’s blood pressure.

There are several ways to incorporate peaches into your diet. Mix some in your next summer salad, or add them as a topping to your breakfast. Peaches are great when muddled and stirred into a tall glass of lemonade, iced tea or even water for a fruity twist. Try baking sliced peaches with honey or chopping them into a salsa for fish tacos. Peaches are always great on their own, too, as an easy snack.

Avoid purchasing peaches canned in heavy, sugary syrup. Look for no-sugar-added options or just pick up a few fresh ones.

The health benefits of consuming many fruits and vegetables are infinite as researchers discover more links.

So, this summer, stock up on peaches while they’re in peak season.

Related Episodes