Table of Contents
Peach palm is a fruit consumed in Central and South America before the arrival of European colonizers. Today it forms part of the traditional diet of countries such as Columbia and Venezuela.
Scientific Facts
- Scientific name – Bactris gasipaes L.
- Scientific synonym – Guilelma gasipaes (H.B.K) Bailey.
- Other names – Pejebaye.
- Spanish – Pejibaye pijibay.
- German – Pfirsich-palmfrucht
- Description – Fruit of the peach palm, a tree of the botanical family Palmae.
- Environment – Found in tropical regions of South America, particularly in Columbia, Venezuela, and Ecuador.
Peach Palm Health Benefits
Carbohydrates predominate in the peach palm composition representing more than forty percent of their weight. The bulk of this is starch, although there are also simple carbohydrates or sugars. They also contain fats and proteins, although in lower proportions than carbohydrates.
They contain a sizable amount of vitamin A in the form of carotenoids, which are pretty heat-resistant, and, in lower proportion, vitamins B1, B2, C, and niacin. As for minerals, they contain lesser amounts of calcium, phosphorus, and iron.
Because of its high starch content, peach palm is a very high-energy fruit. Each gram of starch provides the body with 4 calories when metabolized. Peach palm fruit is indicated in the following cases:
GROWTH PERIODS (childhood, adolescence).
ATHLETES are individuals participating in physical labor, with a more significant energy requirement each time.
MALNUTRITION, undesired weight loss, recovery from debilitating disease.
How to Use and Prepare Peach Palm
- Raw – The pulp of this fruit is starchy with a pleasant flavor.
- Boiled—This is how this fruit is typically prepared. It is cooked for 30 to 45 minutes in salted water. After it has been peeled, it is served with a variety of sauces or with cottage cheese.
- Roasted – Roasted peach palm has a delightful taste.
Frequently Asked Question
I’ve heard peach palm is packed with vitamins and minerals. Can you break that down for me?
Absolutely! The fruit is a nutritional powerhouse. A single serving (100g) provides a significant amount of your daily vitamin A needs (38% RDA) – crucial for vision and immune function. It also offers a respectable dose of vitamin C (17% RDA) for antioxidant protection. You get a healthy dose of minerals like potassium (12% RDA) for heart health and magnesium (10% RDA) for muscle function.
Is it true this fruit is good for my heart?
There’s promising evidence! Peach palm oil contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which promote heart health by reducing “bad” cholesterol levels. While more research is needed, incorporating it into your diet could promote a healthy heart.
Peach palm seems quite starchy. Is it a good source of fiber?
You bet! The fruit is a fantastic source of dietary fiber, with about 7g per serving. This is excellent news for your digestive health, as fiber aids in regularity and promotes a healthy gut microbiome.
I’m watching my weight. Is this fruit a good choice?
Definitely! Despite its starchy texture, it is relatively low in calories (around 140 calories per serving) and high in fiber, helping you feel fuller for longer. It’s a satisfying additive to a balanced diet for weight management.
Are there any antioxidants in peach palm?
Yes, indeed! It is loaded with carotenoids, powerful antioxidants that protect your cells from damage. These include beta-carotene (which your body converts to vitamin A) and lycopene, which may have anti-cancer properties.
I’m curious about its protein content. Is peach palm a good source?
The fruit offers a decent amount of protein (around 3g per serving), especially compared to other fruits. While not as protein-rich as meat or legumes, it contributes to your overall protein intake.
I have high blood pressure. Could peach palms be beneficial?
There’s some potential there! Peach palm is a good source of potassium, a mineral that has been demonstrated to help lower blood pressure. More research is needed, but peach palm in your diet could be part of your blood pressure management strategy.
Are there any unique health benefits of peach palm oil?
Peach palm oil is unique because it’s rich in beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A. This makes it a potentially valuable addition to your diet, remarkably, if you have limited access to other sources of vitamin A.
I’ve heard peach palms are suitable for babies. Is this true?
Yes, in some regions, it is traditionally given to infants as a complementary food. It’s easy to digest and nutrient-dense, and its carotenoid content benefits babies’ developing eyesight.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Foods and Their Healing Power.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Foods and Their Healing Power. Trans. Annette Melgosa. Vol. 2. Chai Wan: Editorial Safeliz, 2005. 296. Print.
- Yuyama et al. (2005) Pejibaye Palm Fruit Contribution to Human Nutrition. Palms. Vol. 36(2).
- Bezerra & Silva (2016) The fruit of a peach palm (Bactris gasipaes) and its technological potential: an overview. Ciencia y Tecnología de Alimentos.
- Espinosa-Pardo et al. (2014) Physicochemical and nutritional characterization of peach palm (Bactris gasipaes Kunth) fruits from Ecuador. Food Chemistry.
- Jatunov et al. (2010) Content of carotenoids in the pulp of peach palm (Bactris gasipaes HBK) from western Amazonia, Brazil. Acta Horticulturae.
- https://www.scielo.br/j/cta/a/Fqybv73Whmf4FwdncBjRgKB/?format=pdf&lang=en
- Biodiversity for Food and Nutrition (B4FN): http://www.b4fn.org/resources/species-database/detail/bactris-gasipaes
- Feedipedia: https://www.feedipedia.org/node/567
Last update on 2024-07-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API