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Nectarine vs. Peach

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Nectarine vs peach differences

Ripe, juicy peaches and nectarines are two stone fruits that look and taste similar. So what is the difference? So they have the same nutritional values and health benefits? Can you use them interchangeably in recipes?

It could be confusing to tell nectarines from peaches placed side by side. They belong to the same subgenus, Amygdalus, and the same species, persica. Just one gene separates the one from another, giving peach its fuzzy skin and nectarine its smooth surface.

The Origin

Peaches are believed to have originated from China. Nectarine’s origin is unknown, but they are considered to have been created from peaches.

The Skin

When placed next to each other, peaches and nectarines usually are of comparable dimensions, with the identical mottled, blushing red-orange-yellow hues, but of course, it’s easy to discern the difference between the two fruits thanks to some peach’s distinctive fuzz, compared to the nectarine’s squeaky-clean hairless dome.

The Family

It’s a common misconception that a nectarine is a cross between a peach and a plum. Not correct! In actuality, peaches and nectarines are almost identical, with only one gene that is either dominant (in peaches) or recessive (in nectarines) that decides whether the skin is smooth or fuzzy.

The Type

Peaches and nectarines both come in different varieties: freestone (meaning the pitfalls quickly away from the flesh) or clingstone (meaning the pit clings tightly to the fruit). Both fruits also come in white and yellow varieties. Nectarines and white peaches are less acidic and therefore taste sweeter.

The Nutrition

Nectarines have more vitamin C, potassium, and twice the amount of vitamin A than a peach.

The Selection

Nectarines can be smaller and firmer than peaches. As the flavor is similar, you can substitute one for the other in any recipe. What is more important is to select the fruit that’s the ripest and most fragrant. Depending on the sector and the stage in the growing season, the peaches and nectarines may take turns as looking better in alternate weeks. Next time you’ve got a hankering to get a dish loaded with summertime taste for drinks, snacks, and desserts, use your senses to choose the tastiest fruit!

The Seeds

Ripe, juicy peaches and nectarines are two stone fruits that look and taste similar. So what is the difference? So they have the same nutritional values and health benefits? Can you use them interchangeably in recipes?

The Health Benefits

The nectarine may be small, but it’s loaded with phenolics which exhibit antioxidant properties. They also pack ascorbic acid and carotenoids. Its skin contains more of these nutrients, so make sure not to peel this fruit unless necessary. Nectarine also contains potassium that may help keep firm muscle, heart, and kidney health.

Peaches are an excellent source of potassium, vitamin c, iron, and dietary fiber. These are all good and essential nutrients for pregnant women. Yes, peaches can be consumed during pregnancy, with a good deal of benefits for pregnant women. Vitamin C is essential since it is a must for the proper development of the fetus. Vitamin C in peach helps with the correct formation and development of teeth, bones, and other vital tissues. Dietary fiber keeps a healthy gastrointestinal tract in elderly women, while potassium and iron are necessary nutrients for pregnant women. The biggest concern with peaches is pesticide contamination (yes, they are on the dirty dozen list for pesticide residues). Given this concern, it’s better that you find and eat organic peaches if possible, at least while pregnant.

The Precautions

Portion control for pregnant women: Aside from the numerous advantages of peach fruit intake during pregnancy, pregnant women should limit their consumption of peaches to no more than five hundred grams every day. Ideally, women should eat no more than two peaches each day and substitute other fruits for peaches to maintain this recommended amount of consumption.

Adverse Effects During Pregnancy

Peaches and nectarines have specific side effects that ought to be considered. Pregnant women diagnosed with elevated blood glucose or gestational diabetes may have these fruits, but only in minimal quantities. As nectarines are sweeter and have higher sugar content, peaches are preferred, but typically about half the amount of those with normal blood glucose levels.

– Peaches consumed in excess can also boost the standard body temperature during pregnancy and may cause some bleeding.

– The skin of peaches and nectarines should be avoided, as the hair-like protrusions on the surface of peaches can cause allergies of the throat or otherwise aggravate the throat.

– Peaches and nectarines can be prone to contamination by pesticides, so sourcing organic fruit is advised.

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