August is National Peach Month. This year I will be taking my children peach picking at our local orchard. We go almost every year to pick apples but this year we decided to mix things up a bit and try our hand at picking peaches. I cannot wait to go. Peaches are not my favorite fruit but the health benefits certainly make it a fruit I will keep on hand for snacks.
Health Benefits of Peaches
Peaches are a sweet treat that are also low in calories and contain no saturated fat (100 g just provide 39 calories). and contain no saturated fats. It may be light in calories but it is packed with vitamins and minerals..
Peaches are high in anti-oxidants. One such anti-oxidant is vitamin C. Vitamin C is very important to the immune system. Consuming vitamin C develops a resistance against infections and free radicals. It is important that to gain the benefits of peaches you eat fresh peaches. Since peaches absorb a high amount of pesticides so eating organic is best.
Fresh peaches are also moderate source of vitamin A and ß-carotene. ß-carotene is a pro-vitamin, which converts into vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is essential for vision. It is also required for maintaining healthy mucus membranes and skin. Consumption of natural fruits rich in vitamin A is known to offer protection from lung and oral cavity cancers.
Peaches are also rich in minerals such as potassium, fluoride and iron. Iron is required for red blood cell formation. Fluoride is a component of bones and teeth and is important for prevention of dental caries. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that help regulate heart rate and blood pressure.
Peaches are high in insoluble fiber. This is important to maintaining a healthy colon.