August is National Peach Month: Here are the Benefits of This Juicy Fruit

These juicy fruits are synonymous with summertime. You will be glad to learn they are not only delicious, but also provide a number of health benefits.

There are over 700 varieties of peaches and are divided into two groups — clingstone and freestone. Clingstone peaches have the stones attached to the flesh and are mainly used for canning. Freestone peaches also have stones that are easy to remove and sold as fresh fruit.

Peaches getsofter after first picked, but they will not get sweeter. Smell is a goodindicator of flavor, so choose fruit that smells fragrant.  If you keep them in a paper bag, it can helpspeed up ripening.

What are the benefits of peaches?

• Peaches are a good source of vitamin C. While oranges are mainly associated with having vitamin C, peaches do contain vitamin C as well. Vitamin C is good for the immune system, reducing free radical oxidative damage and the risk for developing various chronic diseases.
• Peaches are full of vitamin A. Vitamin A is important for healthy skin, reducing inflammation and supporting the immune system. 
• Peaches are full of fiber. Fiber is crucial for overall health in many health conditions. One medium-sized peach has 3 grams of fiber.
• Peaches have potassium. Potassium is an important mineral that helps lower blood pressure, regulate blood sugar and balance fluids in the body.
• Peaches are hydrating. Peaches are between 80-90 per cent water, which means they are a great way to stay hydrated – especially in the summertime. Nothing can replace drinking water, but fruits and vegetables are a great addition to what is in your water bottle.

Yourfavorite summer stone fruit, the peach, is versatile enough to eat when it isat its peak ripeness, or in combination with other ingredients to create sweet andsavory dishes. By adding ripe summer peaches to salads, dessert or as a maindish, you can take your dishes up a notch.

Thepeaches’ natural juicy, sweet flavor and slight undertone of acidity, makes itthe perfect fruit to celebrate when they are in season. These recipes are from the Georgia Peach Council. 

Enjoypeaches three different ways:

Delicious served as a topping for grilled fish, steak, chicken, or pork.

A great addition to any salad for a burst of flavor

This summer side dish pairs Georgia Peaches with fresh mint. The perfect side to any summer grill out.

About the Author

Amy Kimberlain is a registered dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator and Care Specialist (CDCES) with Community Health at Baptist Health South Florida. Ms. Kimberlain has 20 years of experience in nutrition and dietetics. Active in the community, she has contributed her expertise to various public health initiatives, including childhood obesity, diabetes and family health. Ms. Kimberlain is an academy media spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the world’s largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. She earned bachelor’s degrees in nutrition and Spanish from Florida State University. She is also an avid runner and registered yoga teacher.