FoodPeach power: The surprising health benefits and weight-loss wonders

Peach power: The surprising health benefits and weight-loss wonders

Peaches growing on the tree
Peaches growing on the tree
Images source: © Adobe Stock | 50photography

7:39 PM EDT, August 9, 2024

What do these juicy fruits have that makes them recommended on a weight-loss diet? Of course, it's the fiber. There's no way the pounds will start to drop if there's too little of it in your diet. Summer is a good time to enrich your meals with fiber. And that's why it's worth reaching for peaches.

Peaches can now be found at every stall. They're perfect for a quick snack, a salad addition, and even for desserts. This last option is obviously for when you're being less strict about counting calories. Besides fiber and flavor, peaches have many other nutrients that support health.

What you'll appreciate in peaches

A lot of vitamins. You'll find vitamins A, C, E, and K in peaches. Vitamin A is responsible for skin and eye health. Vitamin C supports immunity and acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from the harmful effects of free radicals. Vitamin K is essential for proper blood clotting, and vitamin E protects cells from oxidative stress, contributing to maintaining a youthful appearance of the skin.

Plenty of minerals. Peaches contain potassium, magnesium, and iron. Potassium maintains proper blood pressure and supports normal muscle and nervous system function. Magnesium participates in energy metabolism and supports muscle function, while iron is necessary for producing hemoglobin, which is responsible for transporting oxygen in the blood.

Helpful fiber. These fruits are 90 percent water, which makes them great for cleansing the body of toxins and aiding in weight loss. Combined with their high fiber content, peaches are an excellent addition to a diet. They positively influence the functioning of the digestive system.

Good for the skin. Peaches support collagen production, which improves skin elasticity. Because of this, your skin looks younger and healthier. The beta-carotene in these fruits also improves skin tone and acts as a natural sunscreen, protecting against the harmful effects of UV rays.

Can peaches be eaten on a diet?

Without fear of calories. Peaches are low-calorie fruits (about 21 calories per ounce) and have a low glycemic index (GI). This index shows how quickly blood glucose levels rise after consuming carbohydrates.

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