Peaches
Rich in vitamins A and C, peaches boost immunity and skin health and even improve vision. Native to northwest China and scientifically called Prunus persica, peaches benefit humans in several other ways. Let’s look at them now.
There wouldn’t be a soul in this modern world who wouldn’t have heard of antioxidants. And peaches are replete with these. As per a Brazilian study, peaches could be great sources of antioxidants. They also contain chlorogenic acid, another potent antioxidant that has health-promoting advantages. Peaches also contain phenolic compounds, which, as per another study, contribute to the fruit’s antioxidant activity greater than vitamin C or carotenoids.
One American study states that the polyphenols found in peaches can inhibit the multiplication of breast cancer cells. The same was observed in the case of human colon cancer cells.
Peaches also contain another compound called caffeic acid, which, as per a Swedish study, offers protection against breast and colon cancers by reducing the cancer growth. And in yet another study, the peach compounds inhibited not only the growth of breast cancer cells but also the secondary growths in the lungs. The two major components responsible for this anti-cancer property of peaches are chlorogenic and neochlorogenic acids – these help kill the cancer cells without affecting the healthy ones.
Peaches, as we already discussed, are rich in vitamin A, which promotes skin health. The fruit also adds color to your complexion.
The vitamin C in peaches also helps in this regard. It is a superb antioxidant that can help reduce wrinkles, improve skin texture, and protect the skin from the sun and pollution.
Peaches contain a unique combination of bioactive compounds that reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. According to a study, replacing sugary drinks with fresh fruit juice rich in polyphenols (like peaches) can help lower the cardiovascular risk factors.
The fiber, vitamin C, and potassium in peaches also support heart health. Peaches are also one of the important components of the much-acclaimed DASH diet – which is focused on reducing hypertension.
The dietary fiber in peaches helps regulate and improve digestion. And in addition to being good for digestion, the fruit also acts as a diuretic – it helps cleanse your kidneys and the bladder
The presence of antioxidant phytonutrients like lutein and zeaxanthin make the fruit ideal for eye health. Another study states that the two phytonutrients protect the eye from potential damage caused by light striking the retina. Lutein has also been found to lower the risk of developing common age-related eye diseases
One of the best beauty benefits of peaches. Peaches possess health-boosting flavonoids that help slow down aging as well. A South Korean study also likens the consumption of vitamin C to anti-aging effects.
