This Juicy Summer Fruit Helps Boost Your Immune System

It's the perfect time of the year to enjoy fresh fruit that will leave you feeling peachy after a day out in the hot sun. Fruit contains a lot of water, so adding more of it to your diet can keep you hydrated. And one fruit is 88% H2O — peaches!

They hit the peak of their season in July and August, making it the perfect time to buy some fresh from the grocery store, cut them, bake them, grill them, or simply take a bite out of them.

What's even better than all the ways they can be used is their nutritional content. Peaches are low in calories and fat but high in fiber and vitamins E and K. One medium-sized peach, or about 5.4 grams, is around 50 calories.

They contain antioxidants and vitamin C, which support the immune system by keeping the connective tissue in the body strong. The two also work to fight infections. And with new safety measures in place just about everywhere, eating peaches for the immune system is super important.

They also help to dispose of free radicals in the body that can lead to infections, according to Rutgers University. One study found that it only takes about 30 minutes for the antioxidants in peach juice to start working to use oxygen to fight bacteria in the body in healthy men. Eat peaches for the immune system and to help protect you from viruses and infections, but your gut will thank you. They contain lots of healthy fiber that aid in digestion, Healthline says.

When choosing peaches, pick ones that are firm. They will soften within a few days on the counter. The more ripe the fruit is, the more antioxidants it contains. Opting for fresh peaches, especially during the season from May to September, means they will have more vitamins and minerals. But canned peaches with the skin on are an okay alternative during the fall, winter, and spring months.

There are tons of ways to eat peaches. They're super versatile and can be made into sauces like in this Low-Calorie Smoky Ribs in a Peach BBQ Sauce, and smoothies like a refreshing Raspberry Peach Swirled Smoothie. Use them for dinner and create Savory and Sweet Grilled Pork Chops and Peaches, as well as dessert and serve a Healthy Blueberry Peach Cobbler.