Peaches, often heralded as one of the most delightful fruits globally, stand out for their delectable taste and appealing pink hue.

Beyond their visual allure, peaches pack a punch in terms of nutritional value, with some even touting their potential to aid in weight loss due to antioxidant, skin-brightening, and blood tonic properties.

When you cradle a peach in your hand, its weightiness can be deceiving. The substantial portion consists of seeds and peel.

The mesocarp, the part commonly consumed, is tender, sweet, and juicy. Esters, identified as the primary flavour component, emit a sweet aroma, tempting you to savour a succulent bite.

1. Does the colour of the peach indicate its quality?

Absolutely. Scientific studies have elucidated that darker-coloured peaches boast higher total phenolic and anthocyanin content, translating to an enhanced antioxidant capacity.

For example, red-fleshed peaches outshine their white or yellow counterparts regarding antioxidant components.

Typically, the ripeness of a peach aligns with its colour – the darker the hue, the riper the fruit. When selecting from the same variety, opt for those with deeper, richer colours.

2. Can peaches be consumed with high blood sugar?

Peaches present a favourable option for individuals with concerns about high blood sugar. They exhibit a low sugar content and a low glycemic index (GI) among fruits, registering a GI of 28, second only to grapefruit.

In comparison, other commonly enjoyed summer fruits such as watermelon, pineapple, and grapes boast significantly higher glycemic indices than peaches.

However, moderation remains crucial. Savouring a medium-sized peach (100-150 grams) between meals or before/after exercise, 1-2 times a day, is considered prudent.

3. Can eating more peaches aid in weight loss?

Absolutely. The calorie content of peach meat is notably low, ranging from 20 to 60 calories per 100 grams. Moreover, peaches are rich in pectin, which slows down food digestion, imparting a sense of satiety. Consequently, they emerge as an excellent choice for those aspiring to shed some pounds during summer.

Similar to bananas, peaches are characterized by rapid ripening.

To preserve their freshness:

- Avoid refrigerating unripe peaches; store them in a cool, ventilated place.

- Before consumption, wash the fuzz off peaches.

- If faced with abundant ripe, darker-coloured peaches, consider canning them to prolong their shelf life.

Peaches offer a delightful combination of taste, visual appeal, and nutritional benefits, making them a compelling choice for those seeking a healthy and flavorful addition to their diet.