Peach juice has been a beloved health drink for thousands of years and remained popular because of its rich supply of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, in addition to its sweet and refreshing taste.
It is derived from peaches, the fruit of the Prunus persica tree. Slightly smaller than an apple, peaches have a light fuzz on their outer skin and a stone (pit) in their center. The flesh is soft and juicy and is typically orange or yellow when ripe.
Peach juice is a hearty and nourishing drink that contains significant levels of vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin A, various B-family vitamins, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, zinc, and sulfur, among others.
It also boasts a number of antioxidant compounds, such as lycopene, lutein, and beta-carotene, which further improve your overall health.
1. Improves cardiovascular health
Between the iron and potassium content found in peach juice, in addition to vitamin C, this juice is ideal for protecting the heart. Iron increases circulation and ensures proper oxygenation and blood flow, while potassium functions as a vasodilator to ease tension in the blood vessels and reduce strain on the heart. Vitamin C helps speed the healing process of damaged arteries and tissues, reducing the overall risk of atherosclerosis, heart attack, and stroke.
2. Prevents aging
The anti-aging properties of vitamin E and other antioxidants are well known, as they can help eliminate free radicals from the surface of the skin, decreasing the appearance of wrinkles and other age spots. This juice can also soothe inflammatory conditions and improve the tone and glow of the skin.
3. Weight loss
As one of the lowest-calorie fruit juices, there are only 60 calories in a single cup of peach juice, which can make a great weight-loss diet. You will get a necessary burst of nutrients, without taking up too many calories for the day.
4. Improves respiratory health
When it comes to respiratory infections and inflammation, the peach juice is legendary as a soothing substance that can cut through mucus and phlegm, helping to eliminate the underlying infection and clearing out the respiratory tracts.
5. Relieves inflammatory conditions
Whether you are suffering from arthritis, gout, migraines or an upset stomach, the numerous minerals and antioxidants in the peach juice will help soothe those tissues and even prevent histamine releases in the case of allergic reactions.
6. Detoxifies the body
For generations, peach juice has been used for the diuretic and laxative properties it has, which can help to speed the expulsion of toxins, fats, and salts from the body, while also relieving strain from the kidney and liver.
7. Boosts immunity
Providing a high level of vitamin C and vitamin A, along with lutein, lycopene and other antioxidants, this juice will work as an excellent line of defense against any foreign pathogens attempting to infect the body.
8. Improves vision
Beta-carotene is found in high levels in peace juice and can help to reduce oxidative stress in your retina, thus preventing macular degeneration and slowing the onset of cataracts as you age.
9. Regulates sleep disorders
Peach juice does have mild sedative qualities, making it a popular juice to have right before bed. Certain minerals, enzymes, and antioxidants are able to balance hormone levels and induce the release of “feel-good” hormones that can lull you into peaceful, uninterrupted slumber.
How to make peach juice?
Ingredients
- 6 peaches
- 1 cup water
- 12 ice cubes
- 1 tsp sugar optional
- 1 tsp lemon juice optional
Instructions
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Thoroughly wash the peaches and then cut them in half. Remove the stone and the flesh immediately surrounding it.
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Scoop out the tender meat of the peach from the skin.
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Add the peaches, water, sugar, and ice to a blender.
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Blend thoroughly for 1-2 minutes, until the consistency of the juice is even and smooth.
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If the juice is still too thick, add more water and re-blend.
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Strain the mixture through a sieve or cheesecloth into another container.
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Press or squeeze the remaining fibrous material (pulp) to get as much juice out as possible.
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Serve your juice chilled and enjoy!