Fruits constitute one of the most important sources of phytochemicals in
human diet. Stone fruits, such as peaches, plums, almonds, apricots and cherries have
been investigated concerning their therapeutic effects in the prevention of a range of
diseases. The consumption of these fruits is related with the lower prevalence of
diabetes, overweight or general obesity, lower risk for estrogen receptor-negative
tumors and cardiovascular protection among others. Phenolic compounds,
predominantly flavonoids and phenolic acids, are the main phytochemicals in stone
fruits. Considering the importance of stone fruits as a source of biologically active
compounds the present chapter aims to provide the current findings in this field and the
main implications to human health associated with its consumption.
Keywords: Almond, Anticancer, Antidiabetic, Antiinflammatory, Antioxidant,
Apricot, Bioactive Compounds, Cardiovascular protection, Cherry, Flavonoids,
Nectarine, Obesity, Peach, Phenolic acids, Phenolic compounds, Plum, Prunus,
Stone fruits.
