Peaches Anti-Cancer

Peaches are good for you because they are a source of vitamins A and C and they are a good source of fiber especially with the peal. Peaches are also a good source of potassium and contain some calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and folate.

Though low in calories—one cup of sliced peaches has only 60 calories—and composed of 80 percent water, peaches are packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and carotenoids. The dose of fiber in peaches acts as a gentle laxative, aids digestion, and may also help combat cancer. Peaches is rich in cancer-fighting vitamin A in the form of beta carotene, as well as the immune-boosting vitamin C, which also protects against heart disease. Rich in iron and potassium, peaches help ensure proper functioning of cells, the balance of fluid and electrolytes in the body, and nerve signaling. Lutein and zeaxanthin—two carotenoids found in peaches—help guard against blindness caused by age-related macular degeneration.

Picture By : Vida Naji

According to the Texas Agricultural Experiment Station, researchers have identified peaches’ wide-ranging health benefits, and the new emphasis is on developing varieties that exploit the fruit’s health potential. They’ve found that peaches rank high in some types of phytochemicals and have good to excellent antioxidant activity.

Peaches’ phytonutrients have shown cancer-fighting possibilities. These substances have demonstrated the ability to inhibit the growth of cancerous tumors. A study in China found that men and women who ate peaches more than two times per week had less risk of developing cancers of the mouth than those who did not eat peaches. Considering that peaches are native to China and a sacred symbol of longevity there, science is confirming what ancient Chinese wisdom has long espoused.

Furthermore on lab results, published recently in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry, showed the effects of treating both normal and cancer cells with extracts from two commercial peach and plum varieties. Scientists pinpoint two particular phytochemicals — chlorogenic and neochlorogenic acid— as most likely responsible for the beneficial effect. Previous findings suggest these compounds (also found in cherries, apples and blueberries) may also block the formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines during digestion and reduce the risk of liver cancer. Indeed, lab studies indicate that chlorogenic acid may actually benefit healthy cells: Indian researchers found that the chlorogenic acid concentrated in potato peels appears to protect red blood cells from free-radical damage.

A plant-based diet also helps with weight management — a key factor reducing breast cancer risk. This may be why exercising at least 6 hours a week could contribute to lowering breast cancer risk by 27%.

Eating plenty of plums and peaches, nectarines and apricots also may lower the risk of head and neck cancer, according to a National Cancer Institute study.

For some, peaches’ fuzzy skin may be a put-off. Yet like most fruits and vegetables, the vitamins are found in the skin, so it would be wise to enjoy peaches skin and all. Another option would be to eat the peach’s close relative, the nectarine, which boasts smooth skin. Either way, avoid the pit—peach pits contain a toxic substance known as hydrocyanic acid or cyanide, and ingestion of large quantities can be fatal.

Health Benefits of Peaches

• Peaches is a rich source of vitamins and minerals. They are high in Vitamin A and C and contain vitamin B complex in sufficient amount. They also contain essential minerals such as iron, calcium, phosphorus and potassium. As a result of its rich nutrients, it is used for treating several health conditions.
• Peaches maintain the cholesterol level in the body and prevent several disorders of the heart, bladder and kidney due to its high potassium content. It helps in flushing out toxins from the kidneys and thus prevents kidney stones.
• Due to its high iron content, it is a very good remedy for treating anemia. Severe rheumatic pains and paroxysmal cough as well as other throat infection can also be cured by taking peach tea.
• Peach helps in reducing stress. Therefore, it is used to heal neurological disorders and depression. This is due to its rich vitamin B and phosphorous content, this fruit is used for soothing nerve cells.
• Peaches are also used to cure obesity. They burn the extra layers of fats in the body and help in losing weight.
• Regular consumption of peach helps in better digestion, and prevents constipation because it is a natural laxative. Peaches also revitalize skin tissue and make the skin glow.

Peaches Nutritional Facts

• Peaches phytonutrients have been shown to inhibit growth of cancerous tumors.
• Packed with vitamins, minerals and fiber, which helps to aid in digestion.
• Iron and potassium content helps ensure cell function, balance of fluid and electrolytes and nerve signaling.
• Helps guard against blindness with lutein and zeaxanthin content.

Peaches Storage

Peaches should be stored at room temperature and refrigeration should be avoided as this can lessen the taste of the peach. Peaches do not ripen after being picked from the tree, so storing for ripening is not necessary.

Peaches Forms & Preparation

Peach should ideally be eaten in its fresh form. However, canned peaches, especially in the juice form, are also available in the market. It is also used in jam, jelly, squash and baby food. You can add it to your morning cereal.

Peach tea is an excellent way of healing many disorders of the body and mind. You can drink one cup of this tea 3-4 times a day.

Peaches Precaution

Too much of peach intake may lead to vomiting, lethargy, stomach ache and fainting. Some people may also have allergic reactions.