About the Nutritional Content of Peaches

The peach was originally grown in China, then made its way through trade routes to the Middle East and then to Europe. Today, the state of Georgia is popularly associated with this sweet and nutritious fruit. The beneficial vitamins and minerals in peaches make them an excellent choice for people wanting to eat healthier food.

Features

A large peach measures almost 3 inches in diameter. It only contains 68 calories per serving, and of those only 4 calories come from fat. A peach has 2 g of protein and 17 g of carbs, 3 of which come from dietary fiber. It is low in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium. It is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, niacin and dietary fiber.

Potential

The vitamins and minerals in peaches have wide and significant health benefits. When combined with a healthy diet and exercise, they aid with the function of most of the body's systems. Experts recommend a diet that includes fruits and vegetables. Peaches as a snack or incorporated in a meal helps to contribute to a well-balanced diet. Their natural sweetness makes them a perfect choice for kids when they crave a sweet snack.

Benefits

Potassium is an electrolyte, which is used to help maintain your body's fluid levels. It is essential in the functioning of the nervous system, and can help reduce headaches and migraines.
Vitamin A is also called retinol. It is an antioxidant that fights the causes of tissue and cellular damage.
Niacin (vitamin B3) is used to break down all type of food, promoting the normal function of the stomach and the digestive tract. It is needed also needed for healthy skin.
Vitamin C is vital to the growth, development and repair of tissues, especially in the formation of collagen, the absorption of iron, wound healing and in maintaining strong bones.

Effects

Getting enough potassium leads to a sense of well-being; it is also a natural pain reliever. It is a key element in maintaining the body's homeostasis (normal functioning). Niacin is important for the function of the nervous system, and red blood cell production depends on the presence of this nutrient. It is also important in the production of hormones.
The antioxidants in vitamin C attack harmful free radicals in the body to protect against infections and keep the immune system healthy. It is used to help the body form connective tissues, keep blood vessels healthy and help your body absorb iron.

Prevention/Solution

Peaches have a mild laxative property that aids with digestive health. Peaches are recommend to help fight cancer, heart disease and the effects of aging on eyesight, memory, immune function and inflammation.
The potassium in peaches helps to lower high blood pressure. It also eases joint stiffness associated with arthritis and has been shown the lower the risk of strokes, especially in men.
Niacin improves circulation and reduces high blood cholesterol levels. It stimulates circulation and helps to maintain normal blood pressure. The niacin in peaches is helpful in maintaining proper triglyceride levels in the blood. Studies suggest it is helpful for people who already have coronary artery disease. Niacin has been used in treatments for mood and psychological disorders as it aids in supporting brain functions and cognition.
Research shows that people who get enough vitamin C in the diets are at a lower risk for strokes. It is used to help people with immune systems weakened by stress. While it is not the magic cure for the common cold, it can help to prevent the cold from progressing to pneumonia or lung infections.

Significance

Deficiency in potassium causes muscle paralysis (this includes the muscles of the heart). Other serious side effects of potassium deficiency include poor circulation, chronic fatigue syndrome, edema, hypertension and intestinal pain.
Deficiency in vitamin A leads to night blindness.