5 Proven Health Benefits Of Peaches

An apple a day keeps the doctor away – it is the oldest proverb you can think of when it comes to food and health. But, it is time to change that now.If you stock up apples to reduce your visits to the doctor, you might want to stock up on peaches, too.

That’s right, peaches are nutritious and fit well in the healthy foods list.

# They May Fight And Prevent Cancer Growth

Peaches contain phenolic and carotenoid compounds that contribute to their anticancer or cancer inhibiting properties. Studies have reported that the polyphenolics from peaches may fight and even prevent cancer cells. The skin and pulp of the fruit are not the only parts that may help in fighting cancer cells.

Results of a study have shown that the seeds of the fruit may also have anticancer properties that can battle cancer. Peaches are also rich in beta-carotene which can help lower the risk of certain kinds of cancer like lung and prostate cancer.

# They Can ProtectYour Heart

Peaches are rich sources of the mineral potassium. As mentioned earlier, 100 grams of a peach fruit contains 190 milligrams of potassium. Potassium is an important mineral controlling the electrical balance of the heart. Therefore, having peaches can do good for the heart health.

This is because low potassium levels can cause muscle weakness and disturbances in the heart. Therefore, if you need to increase the levels of potassium in your body, add peaches to your list of potassium-rich foods.

# They Can Protect You From Illnesses

Peaches are rich in vitaminC and other antioxidants and these can protect the body from illnesses that can harm the body’s immune system. The presence of the various antioxidants gives it the ability to fight free radicals as well.

These free radicals or unstable cells in the body cause damage to the cells like oxidative stress and can weaken the immune system causing the body to be more prone to diseases and even cell breakdown.

# They Help Reduce Inflammation

Peaches may also help reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation can lead to serious health conditions like arthritis. Peaches have the ability to control or bring down the release of histamine (chemicals that may cause allergic reactions when released into the bloodstream) and therefore, may even help prevent allergies.

# They Are Good For Your Eyes

100 grams of the peach fruit contains 91 micrograms oflutein and zeaxanthin, which is quite a high number. Lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids that behave as antioxidants in the eye. They filter the harmful light waves like ultraviolet light from the sun andprotects and maintains healthy cells in the eye. Studies have also shown that these compounds reduce the risk of developing chronic eye diseases like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.