Peaches

What are Peaches
Peaches were originally from an area near the city of Xian, China. They were cultivated in China at least 3,000 years ago. Wild peaches, called "Maotao" or "Yietao", still grow in remote areas of China. Throughout the next centuries, peaches were spread all over Europe. Today, the peach is grown in at least 64 countries worldwide. The U.S. produces about 20% of the world's peaches.

Peach Nutrition Information
A surprising fact to note is that a medium peach packs a powerful 465 IU of vitamin A to combat the effects of aging. Further benefits of a medium peach include B vitamins, 3 mcg of folic acid, 5.7 mg of vitamin C, 4.35 mg of calcium, 1.4 grams of fiber, 171 mg of potassium, and a little zinc. Their beta carotene also helps build a strong immune system to prevent damage from free radicals, and to avert many skin diseases. Beta carotene is a provitamin that the body converts into vitamin A.

A medium size peach has about 35 calories - a perfect snack or dessert just as is. Peaches are a good source of fiber. They are also rich in phytochemicals which act as antioxidants, ridding the body of free radicals. Phytochemicals are critical for healthy skin and can be thrown out of balance in the body by exposure to the sun's UV rays.

Although peaches can be cooked, canned, dried, pureed, boiled, roasted, and made into jam, the best flavor and nutritional benefits are derived from enjoying them fresh and whole, fuzz and all! In their natural state, no nutrients have been extracted and nothing harmful has been added.

Storing Peaches
Peaches are sensitive souls. They bruise easily, and should be handled with care. If they aren't ripe, store them in a paper bag, but please don't pile them on top of each other or, yes, those bruises will appear. If ripe, they may be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week depending on the degree of ripeness. For full succulence, bring them to room temperature and then enjoy both flavor and aroma

Some Trivia Peach Facts
Cultivation of peaches began in China as early as 2000 BCE, where the ancient Chinese thought of the peach as a symbol of the female genitalia and recognized its yin qualities. A Chinese bride was referred to as a peach.

In China, the peach has mystical attributes, and supposedly brings luck, abundance and protection. Originally growing in North China in areas of erosion and overgrazing, peaches became a symbol of fertility and of affection.

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