AUGUST IS NATIONAL PEACH MONTH which makes it a perfect time for
Some of the health benefits of peaches:
-
Peaches are low in calories, contain no saturated fats, and are loaded with
numerous health promoting compounds, minerals and vitamins.
-
The total measured
anti-oxidant strength (ORAC
value) of 100 g peach fruit is 1814 TE (Trolex
equivalents).
-
Fresh
peaches are an excellent source of vitamin C which has
anti-oxidant effects. Foods rich in vitamin C aid in resistance to fighting infection and removing harmful free radicals.
-
Fresh peaches also contain vitamin A
and ß-carotene.
ß-carotene converts into vitamin A in the
body. Vitamin A is necessary for
vision and helps maintain healthy mucus membranes and
skin as well as being known to offer
protection
from lung and oral cavity cancers.
-
Peaches are rich in potassium, fluoride and iron.
Iron is required for red blood cell formation. Fluoride is a component
of bones and teeth and helps in the prevention of cavities.
Potassium is a component of cell and body fluids that help
regulate heart rate and blood pressure.
-
Peaches contain antioxidants such as lutein,
zeaxanthin and ß-cryptoxanthin which play a role in aging and various disease process.