Peaches, plums, and apricots each have different nutritional values. From a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective, they can also have certain therapeutic effects, but all three fruits should be consumed in moderation.
The reason peaches are "nourishing" is mainly due to their rich nutritional content, especially their high iron content. Regular consumption can help prevent and treat anemia, and the pectin in them can also prevent constipation. However, no matter how nutritious a food is, it should not be eaten in excess. Eating peaches as a meal can easily lead to "heatiness" (上火), and in severe cases, can cause sores to appear on the body. People who are prone to internal "heat" should especially avoid eating too many.
Eating too many apricots and plums can cause discomfort to the stomach and intestines. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, apricots are considered "heaty" foods and slightly toxic. Eating too many can damage the muscles and bones, and trigger the recurrence of old illnesses. Modern nutrition, on the other hand, emphasizes that the strong acidity in fresh apricots can cause a surge in stomach acid, leading to stomach problems. Plums, however, are "cold" foods. Eating too many can lead to the production of phlegm, even causing "false heat" (虚热), and can cause the gastrointestinal tract to move violently. People with weak spleen and stomach functions, or poor digestion, should eat them sparingly.
However, the fact that eating too many apricots and plums can be "harmful" does not mean they lack nutritional value. Both are highly nutritious, rich in nutrients such as sugars, vitamins, fruit acids, and amino acids. The therapeutic value of apricots is particularly significant; in Traditional Chinese Medicine, they are often used to moisten the lungs, resolve phlegm, clear heat, and detoxify. Plums have effects such as clearing and nourishing the liver, and clearing damp-heat. Nevertheless, even for healthy people who want to try something fresh, it is still better to eat them in moderation.