Nectarines — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 4, 2024
Nutrition facts
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 44 kcal
Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
---|---|---|
Carbs | 11 g | 4% |
Fiber | 2 g | 7.14% |
Sugars | 8 g | 16% |
Glycemic Index | 35 | - |
Protein | 1 g | 2% |
Sodium | 0 mg | - |
Total Fat | 0 | - |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
35
🟢 Low Glycemic Index
Did you know?
Health benefits
- High in vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin C, Vitamin A, potassium, and fiber, which support immune function, skin health, and overall well-being.
- Rich in antioxidants such as beta-carotene, which help protect the body from free radicals and reduce inflammation.
- Supports digestive health with their fiber content, promoting regular bowel movements and a healthy gut microbiome.
- Low in calories, making them a nutritious option for weight management and overall health.
- Hydrating due to their high water content, helping to maintain hydration.
Health risks
- High sugar content relative to other fruits, which may cause blood sugar spikes, particularly concerning for diabetics or those on low-sugar diets.
- Potential for digestive discomfort such as bloating or diarrhea when consumed in large quantities due to their high fiber content.
- Risk of allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those allergic to stone fruits like peaches, causing symptoms like itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Potential for pesticide residue on conventionally grown nectarines, which can pose health risks if not properly washed or sourced from organic suppliers.
How to choose nectarines
Seek out nectarines that are slightly firm with a vibrant color, indicating they are ripe and ready to eat. The skin should be free of bruises and soft spots.
Do not select nectarines with hard, unyielding flesh near the stem or those with visible cuts or punctures, as these fruits will likely spoil quickly or may already be compromised.
How to store nectarines
Unripe nectarines can be kept at room temperature until they ripen. Once ripe, store them in the refrigerator to prolong their freshness. Properly stored, ripe nectarines can last for up to a week in the fridge.
Exposure to ethylene-producing fruits like apples can cause nectarines to ripen too quickly. Avoid storing them in plastic bags as this can trap moisture and lead to mold. Ensure they are dry before refrigerating to maintain their texture and flavor.
✅ Extra Tip
How long do they last?
Nectarines can last for 3-5 days at room temperature and up to 1 week in the refrigerator. For longer storage, nectarines can be frozen for up to 12 months.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover nectarines can be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes. Slice them and add to salads with greens, nuts, and a citrus vinaigrette, or mix them into a fruit salad with other summer fruits like berries and melons. Nectarines are also great when grilled and served as a side dish with meats or as a topping for desserts.
Use nectarines as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or cereal, or blend them into a smoothie with yogurt and honey for a refreshing drink. If you have a lot of nectarines, consider making a batch of nectarine jam or preserves to enjoy later. Nectarines can also be baked into pies, tarts, or cobblers for a sweet treat, or used as a filling for crêpes or pastries. For a quick snack, enjoy nectarines on their own, or drizzle them with honey and serve with a dollop of whipped cream.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
How nectarines support specific health conditions
Nectarines are a juicy, low-calorie fruit rich in vitamin C, supporting immune health and promoting skin health by boosting collagen production. They are also high in fiber, promoting digestive health and aiding in bowel regularity. Nectarines contain antioxidants, such as beta-carotene, supporting eye health and protecting cells from oxidative damage. Their natural sweetness and hydrating properties make them a refreshing and nutritious snack, ideal for weight management.
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Listonic Team
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Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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