What Is the Nutritional Value of a Peach?

Peaches are loved by many for their taste, which can rival foods like candy, cookies, and cakes in sweetness. Despite the fact that it is a popular fruit in many countries around the world, many people are unaware of the nutritional value of a peach. Fans of peaches who wish to eat healthfully may be glad to learn that peaches can provide fiber, potassium, vitamins A and C, and niacin. Furthermore, peaches are cholesterol-free as well as low in fat and calories. When all aspects of the nutritional value of a peach are considered, it becomes clear this fruit is a good choice for those who want to eat a healthy diet.

A significant aspect of the nutritional value of a peach is fiber content. One large peach can contain as much as 10 percent of the recommended daily intake of fiber as determined by the United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA). Getting adequate dietary fiber is important for a number of reasons. For instance, it can assist digestion, reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, and promote a feeling of fullness which may curb overeating.

Large peaches can also contain as much as 9 percent of the recommended daily intake of potassium. This vital nutrient assists in healthy nerve and muscle function. It also helps the body manage fluids, discouraging bloating and swelling.

Another noteworthy aspect of the nutritional value of a peach is its vitamin content. A large peach can contain as much as 19 percent of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C and 11 percent of the recommended intake of vitamin A. These antioxidants may protect against cellular damage caused by harmful environmental particles known as free radicals, potentially lowering the risk of cancer, stroke, and heart disease.

In addition, peaches contain vitamin B3, commonly known as niacin. This vitamin can raise the body’s levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, also known as “good” cholesterol. It is believed that HDL cholesterol may help to clear low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, or “bad” cholesterol, from the blood, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Finally, peaches are low in fat and calories. Furthermore, they contain no cholesterol. Taking all aspects of the nutritional value of a peach into consideration, it is clear that this fruit is a good choice for those who wish to enjoy a food that is sweet, portable, and quite healthy.