Sweet and fragrant 'Peach', healthy ways to enjoy it

◇ Celestial, Yellow, White, and Half Peaches... Types and Characteristics of Peaches

Peaches are temperate deciduous fruit trees belonging to the genus Prunus in the rose family, along with plums, apricots, cherries, and other stone fruits. Peaches are divided into two types based on whether the fruit surface has hairs or not.

Peaches with fuzz and nectarines without fuzz are distinguished. Since the taste varies depending on the variety, you can choose according to your personal preference.

The most popular variety is 'Baekdo'. Its skin changes from white to crimson, and the flesh is white with high sweetness. When fully ripe, it is juicy. Among 'Baekdo' varieties, the 'Mibaek' cultivar is very soft, making it easy for people with weak teeth to eat without difficulty.

'Hwangdo' has a yellowish skin and flesh, with red seeds. It is used extensively for processing such as canning due to its firm flesh. 'Cheondo' differs from Baekdo and Hwangdo in that it has no fine hairs. It is heavily mixed with red color, and its flesh is firm. It has a harmonious balance of sourness and sweetness, with a pleasant aroma.

Recently, among young people, the flat peach variety called 'Bando' has gained great popularity. This peach is shaped like a donut by pressing its round form, and it is commonly seen in Europe. It has a higher average sugar content and a strong, distinctive aroma compared to regular peaches. However, it is small in size, difficult to cultivate, has a low yield, and is expensive.

◇ Select delicious peaches, properly ripen them, and store them correctly

Peaches are fruits that are easily damaged by external shocks, so it is best to choose ones without scars and with firm flesh. Among fuzzy peaches, those with more fuzz and standing stiffly are fresh. Peaches develop better aroma and texture when ripened after harvest.

Peaches tend to be sweeter the further away from the stem they are. Those with the stem still protruding prominently are harvested when less ripe and may taste sour. Conversely, peaches with a rounder stem and many spots on the skin tend to be sweeter.

For ripening, it is best to keep them in a well-ventilated, cool place. When storing afterwards, wrap each one individually with a paper towel and keep them refrigerated.

The most ideal temperature for storing peaches is between 8 and 13°C. Yellow peaches are best stored at 3 to 5°C, and white peaches at 8 to 10°C for optimal crispness, sweetness, and juiciness.

Sweetness is better preserved when stored in the refrigerator, but it should be noted that the sweetness weakens below 0°C. Storing at low temperatures in the refrigerator for a long period can diminish the flavor, so it is best to consume within 1-2 days after purchase.

◇ Fatigue recovery, energy recharge

Peaches are rich in aspartic acid, which helps improve chronic fatigue syndrome, detoxify the liver, and promote antibody production. One peach contains 284 to 365 mg of aspartic acid, providing a much higher amount than apples, oranges, or grapes.

Additionally, peaches are rich in potassium, which can replenish potassium lost through sweating. Moreover, peaches contain pectin, polyphenols, and organic acids, helping to overcome heat and revitalize the tired body.

◇ Pore reduction, whitening effect

Peaches are rich in moisture and vitamins, which greatly benefit skin health. According to data from the National Institute of Agricultural Sciences, tannin and magnesium components contribute to skin elasticity and pore contraction.

In addition, it helps with skin whitening by inhibiting the activity of tyrosinase, which is involved in melanin production. Peaches contain a lot of vitamin A, organic acids, and sugars, making them effective in reducing fatigue.

Delayed aging, reduced inflammation

Peaches are rich in polyphenols, which are antioxidants. Polyphenols reduce oxidation in the body and inhibit the formation of carcinogenic nitrosamines. Due to these effects, aging is delayed and chronic inflammation is reduced.

Additionally, peaches contain a high amount of natural alkaline components, making them effective in eliminating waste and toxins from the body. Citric acid, malic acid, and succinic acid, which give a sour taste, also help reduce nicotine accumulated in the bodies of smokers.

◇ Blood pressure control, prevention of constipation

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), peaches are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, making them effective in preventing heart disease, stroke, and cancer. The more ripe and fresh the peach, the higher its antioxidant content.

Additionally, peaches are rich in potassium, which helps excrete sodium from the body and lower blood pressure. They are especially beneficial for patients with hypertension. The soluble dietary fiber pectin found in peaches helps reduce blood cholesterol levels, improves intestinal function, and is effective in preventing constipation.

Peach, this way of eating is even better

Peaches are fruits that go well with a variety of foods. Adding them to salads or yogurt enhances the flavor even further.

It especially enhances the bland taste of salad greens like spinach or kale, making them more enjoyable to eat. When combined with spicy sauces like salsa, the sweetness of the peach becomes even more prominent. It also pairs well when added to drinks like tea or smoothies, or served alongside grilled dishes like kebabs.

There are especially foods that pair well with peaches for health benefits. When the catechin components of peaches are combined with vitamin C and E, the health effects are enhanced. It is even better to mix them with fruits rich in vitamin C, such as lemons, strawberries, and kiwis.

Peach that gradually raises blood sugar... one a day is appropriate

Peaches are low glycemic index foods. The lower the glycemic index (GI), the slower the blood sugar rises. A GI value of 70 or higher is classified as high glycemic index, while 55 or lower is classified as low glycemic index.

Peach (GI 41) belongs to the group of foods that slowly raise blood sugar, along with apple (36), pear (36), orange (31), strawberry (29), kiwi (35), plum (34), tangerine (33), cabbage (26), and tomato (30).

However, since the sugar content is high, it is recommended to consume only about one piece per day and avoid overeating. Additionally, people with peach allergies should be cautious when consuming.