Nectarine

The nectarine is a cultivar group of peach that has a smooth, fuzzless skin. Though peaches and nectarines are regarded as different fruits, they belong to the same species.

Nectarines are full of beta-carotene and a good source of fiber, having a health benefits including preventing constipation and digestive conditions. A healthy, whole foods diet should include nectarines an addition to your daily fiber intake.

Nutrients in nectarines can help protect the heart and eyes, as well as provide the disease-fighting effects of fiber. The high beta-carotene and lycopene activity of nectarines makes them important heart health foods. Both beta-carotene and lycopene protect cholesterol from oxidation, which may help prevent heart diseases.

Nectarines are a very good source of vitamin C and an excellent source of vitamin A that promote good vision. Vitamin A is a powerful antioxidant that fights free radical damage to cells and tissues. Free radical damage can injure the eyes’ lenses.

Nectarines are also good source of dietary fiber and potassium. They also contain phytochemicals called carotenoids, compounds that give red, orange and yellow colors to fruits and vegetables.

As with peaches, nectarines can be white or yellow, and clingstone or freestone. On average, nectarines are slightly smaller and sweeter than peaches, but with much overlap. The lack of skin fuzz can make nectarine skins appear more reddish than those of peaches, contributing to the fruit’s plum-like appearance. The lack of down on the skin also means their skin is more easily bruised than peaches.

Regular nectarine trees occasionally produce a few peaches , and vice versa.