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

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. The juicy fruit also helps 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 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 muddled and stirred into a tall glass of lemonade, iced tea or even water. Bake them with honey or chop them into a salsa for fish tacos. Peaches are always great on their own, too, as an easy snack.

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

This summer, make sure to enjoy peaches while they’re in peak season — just be sure to grab a napkin. Or three.

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