Spotlight On Peaches: Heart Healthy And Gut Loving!

peaches

Hi everyone. Today we’re going to talk about peaches! I love them—they taste fantastic and they’re great for you, too. There are very few snacks (especially portable ones) that embody summer like the peach.

In fact, peaches have a lot more to offer than you may think, from vitamins to minerals, to helping get rid of fungus. And kids (for the most part) love them, too. They can be a sneaky, yet sweet way to fit in some great nutrients.

Here’s why I love this fruit. Peaches:

Are high in Vitamin C, and are a great way to get some daily in summer. You don’t need to load up on orange juice: store-bought O.J. can be loaded with sugar, too. (Not my ideal morning drink since there usually isn’t any fiber to lower your blood sugar levels.) As you probably know, Vitamin C is very important for boosting the immune system, fighting free radicals, and reducing your risk for chronic disease.
Are rich in Vitamin A, which is super important for healthy eyes and skin, in addition to reducing inflammation and boosting the immune system.
Are loaded with potassium, helpful in reducing blood pressure, regulate blood sugar (Blood Sugar Balance), and balance fluids in the body. Deficiency in potassium can cause muscle cramps—so peaches are a great go-to after workouts. Add some protein for optimal muscle restoration.
Treat gut disorders. The fruit can help with certain gut disorders that involve motility (Motility Blog Post).
Combat free radicals. Peaches are rich in antioxidants, which means that the fruit will help fight those nasty, free radicals we’re exposed to on a daily basis. When free radicals roam throughout the body, oxidative stress occurs, which leads to disease and gut issues. Peaches are high in caffeic acid (1), an antioxidant specifically found in peaches. Caffeic acid protects the body from the dangerous carcinogenic mold aflatoxin, which is found in peanuts, corn, and peanut butter (2). Unfortunately, I’ve encountered many clients who’ve been exposed to this mold unaware. It contributes to a multitude of harmful symptoms (more on mold toxicity to come).
Help eliminate Candida fungus. If you’ve worked with a functional medicine practitioner (or with me), you may have taken a stool test to determine any digestive issues. Candida is sometimes overlooked by traditional doctors, who may treat an overgrowth topically. However, topical treatments don’t get rid of Candida. I suggest a low-sugar candida diet, which includes fruits such as peaches (3).

While peaches are fantastic, they may not be the best for you if you’re sensitive to FODMAPs. If you experience bloating, gas, belching, or have been diagnosed with IBS or SIBO, then peaches may be on your “avoid list.” Otherwise, enjoy the benefits of this summer staple!

Peaches are rich in antioxidants, which means that the fruit will help fight those nasty, free radicals we’re exposed to on a daily basis. Click To Tweet

You can snack on peaches or use them in a meal, too! Here are some tasty options:

Create an Instagram-worthy summer salad with mixed greens or spinach. Add dry-roasted nuts, diced peaches, fresh mozzarella, and protein. I alternate between grilled chicken, salmon, and tofu. Drizzle with balsamic dressing for a refreshing, crunchy meal that’s delicious—and good for you!
Make your morning as peachy as possible! Add peaches into a smoothie or top gluten-free NL pancakes (recipe here).
Snack on grilled peaches with balsamic vinegar, or add to grilled chicken or fish as a side.
Slice up fresh peaches for an on-the-go snack, and pack in these reusable bags.