Health benefits of peaches (Prunus persica)
May reduce allergy symptoms
Peaches (Prunus persica) can reduce unpleasant symptoms of allergy. [ [ref. 1] ] When your body is exposed to an allergen and develops intolerance, it releases histamines or chemicals produced by your immune system to help the body get rid of the allergen. Histamines are part of the body's protective system, and their excretion in excessive amounts causes allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching or coughing.
Research shows that peaches can help reduce allergy symptoms by preventing the release of histamines into the blood. [ [ref. 2] ] In addition, in vitro studies have shown that peach extracts can also be effective and limit inflammation often seen in allergic reactions.
May support immunity
Peaches are rich in immunity-boosting nutrients and antioxidants. In vitro studies have reported that they can also fight certain types of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes. [ [ref. 3] ]
May protect against certain toxins
In one small study, peach extracts were given to smokers and helped to remove nicotine through urine. Nicotine is a major toxic component of tobacco smoke and is recognized as a risk factor for inducing oxidative tissue damage, which is a precursor to cardiovascular disease, lung-related diseases, and cancer. [ [ref. 4] ]
May reduce blood sugar levels
Studies have shown that compounds found in peaches can help prevent high blood sugar levels and insulin resistance in obese rats.
Widely available and easy to include in any diet
Peaches can be bought literally from any store and can be eaten raw, baked, grilled, made in desserts. For example, fresh peaches are a great breakfast rich in nutrients and can be eaten alone or topped with yogurt and a handful of nuts. You can also make a peach marmalade or peach cake, grilled peaches with fresh goat's cheese and more.
How to choose and store peaches
Peaches are available in a wide range of varieties - some white, others yellow. White peaches are sweeter, while yellow peaches are more sour.
When choosing peaches, usually the sweeter their smell, the more mature they will be. Try to avoid brownish, bruised or wrinkled fruits that are either damaged or overripe. Instead, look for peaches with a hard or only slightly soft outer part.
Peaches continue to ripen once they are torn off. So if your peaches are firmer, leave them at room temperature for one to three days.
Ripe peaches last about a week at room temperature. If you do not plan to eat them within this period of time, it is best to store them in your refrigerator to avoid overeaching and spoiling them.
