It's the season for fresh peaches, so peach lovers can indulge. There's a folk saying, "Peaches fill you up, but apricots harm you." Wang Jingshun, head of the Nutrition and Dietetics Department at the Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, however, reminds us that while peaches are "nourishing," they should not be eaten excessively, especially by certain groups of people who should be more restrained.
Wang Jingshun explains that "peaches fill you up" means "peaches nourish people." Traditional Chinese medicine believes that peaches have the effects of tonifying the middle jiao, replenishing qi, nourishing yin to promote fluid secretion, and moistening the intestines to relieve constipation. They are particularly suitable for people with symptoms such as deficiency of both qi and blood, sallow complexion and emaciation, palpitations and shortness of breath, constipation, amenorrhea, and swelling and pain from blood stasis. Eating peaches regularly can strengthen the body and promote longevity. However, the following groups should eat fewer or no peaks:
People with a tendency for internal heat and who are prone to sores and carbuncles: Peaches are sweet in taste and warm in nature, and overconsumption can generate heat. For those who already have "heatiness," eating more peaches is like "adding fuel to the fire." Li Shizhen once said: "Eating too many raw peaches can cause bloating and sores, which is harmful rather than beneficial."
Diabetics: Peaches are high in sugar, with 7 grams of sugar per 100 grams. If diabetics eat them without restraint, it can damage pancreatic function, causing a rapid rise in blood sugar and urine sugar, and worsening their condition.
People who are chronically ill and weak, or have very weak gastrointestinal function: Because peaches contain a large amount of macromolecules, eating them can increase their gastrointestinal burden, causing abdominal pain and diarrhea, so they are not suitable for consumption.
Infants and young children: The digestive systems of infants and young children are not well-developed and cannot digest the large amount of macromolecules in peaches, which can easily cause allergic reactions.
Pregnant women: Excessive consumption can generate heat, which may lead to acute miscarriage, bleeding, and other issues.