Want Peachy-Keen Health? Eat Peaches.

The phrase peachy-keen means very good or excellent, and that's certainly the case when you consider the bounty of health benefits this furry fruit delivers. August is National Peach Month, so ATRIO Health Plans is spreading the word that not only do peaches taste terrific, but they also serve up a bushel of health benefits.

Antioxidants Aplenty

Peaches are home to a host of health-promoting antioxidants. Antioxidants are found in many forms, but they share the characteristic of preventing or stopping cell damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants are credited with facilitating healthy aging and interfering with a variety of disease processes.

Vitamin C is an effective antioxidant, and peaches are a good source of vitamin C. Skin products containing vitamin C can help reduce wrinkles and improve overall skin texture. Vitamin C also promotes the production of collagen; collagen serves as a support system for bones, muscles, skin, and tendons.

Heart Healthy and More

Researchers have found that stone fruits like peaches can play a role in preventing obesity-related diseases such as diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease. It's believed that peaches, and other stone fruits, contain compounds with anti-obesity and anti-inflammatory properties that may also reduce the bad cholesterol (LDL) associated with cardiovascular disease.

Peaches additionally contribute to heart health because they're a good source of both fiber and potassium. The fiber in peaches can help prevent stomach disorders, such as constipation, ulcers, and gastritis. Many cardiology experts contend that increasing potassium intake, coupled with descreasing sodium intake, are the most impactful dietary steps one can take to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that help regulate heart rate and blood pressure.

Peaches are particularly plentiful this time of year, so add them to your grocery list and start experiencing peachy-keen health.

Tomato, Peach and Avocado Bruschetta

Peaches are scrumptious to eat right off the tree, but they're also a dandy addition to many dishes. For example, consider this yummy and healthful tomato, peach, and avocado bruschetta.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sliced cherry tomatoes
• Drizzle of olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Drizzle of white balsamic vinegar
• 2 to 4 peaches, cut into small pieces
• 1 avocado, diced
• Chopped basil and/or mint
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 to 6 slices of 100% whole-grain bread

Instructions:

1. Toss tomatoes in a small bowl with olive oil, white balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, salt and pepper.
2. To that mixture add the peaches, avocado, basil, and mint; toss to coat.
3. Taste and adjust seasonings, adding more salt and pepper as needed.
4. Toast slices of bread and heap the mixture on top of toast. Drizzle with more olive oil and serve immediately.

Bon appétit!

Sources:

https://draxe.com/nutrition/peach-nutrition/

https://www.loveandlemons.com/tomato-peach-avocado-bruschetta/

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/274620.php

https://njaes.rutgers.edu/sshw/message/message.php?p=Health&m=301

https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/fruit/health-benefits-of-peach.html