Some Best Benefits of Eating Plums

There are few fruits that come in such a panorama of colors as the juicy sweet tasting plum. The plum season extends from May through October with the Japanese varieties first on the market from May and peaking in August followed by the European varieties in the fall.

Plums belong to the Prunus genus of plants and are relatives of the peach, nectarine and almond. They are all considered "drupes," fruits that have a hard stone pit surrounding their seeds.

Prunes are the dried version of European plums. In the United States, through, you may not see the term "prunes" used as frequently as before, as this fruit items recently had its name officially changed to "dried plum." Sweet with a deep taste and a sticky chewy texture, prunes are not only fun to eat but they are also highly nutritious. As with other dried fruits, they are available year round.

Health Benefits of Plums

Antioxidants: Plums contains vitamin C and phytonutrients such as lutein, cryptoxanthin, zeaxanthin, neochlorogenic and chlorogenic acid. These components possess effective antioxidant qualities which help in preventing the damage caused by oxygen radicals called superoxide anion radicals. The phenols present in plums also extend their protective effect on the essential fats in the neurons and cell membranes against any injuries caused by oxidative stress.

Treats Digestive Disorders:

The compounds sorbitol and isatin, found in plums, help in regulating the functioning of the digestive system and in relieving constipation.

Good Source of Vitamin C:

Improves Cardiovascular Health:

Plums also help in maintaining the heart health. They contain antioxidants that help to get rid of the free radicals and prevent cholesterol oxidation. Cholesterol oxidation is a threat to healthy blood vessels, which may eventually lead to a number of heart diseases such as heart stroke and high cholesterol. The vitamin C in plums is extremely helpful for controlling heart diseases in diabetic patients.

Cancer: Plum extracts have been proven beneficial in the treatment of cancer. Studies have shown that the component epicatechin, present in plums, helps in inhibiting the growth and proliferation of malignant cancer cells and induces apoptosis in human hepatocellular carcinoma or liver cancer. They are rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients, including chlorogenic acid and neo-chlorogenic acid which have a curative effect against breast cancer cells, without harming the normal healthy cells of the body.

Skin Care: Plums are rich in vitamin C, along with other antioxidants, which help to maintain healthy, radiant and youthful skin.

 Plum extracts are used in various skin care products such as face wash.

Blood Clotting: Plums and prunes contain vitamin K, which helps in normal clotting of the blood and promotes bone health. Deficiency of vitamin K in the body can result in excessive blood loss and other health concerns such as weak bones.

Anxiety: Regular consumption of plums help in reducing anxiety. Studies have provided supporting evidence regarding the anxiolytic effects and antioxidant properties of chlorogenic acids present in plums, which help in curing anxiety-related behaviors and damage caused by oxidative stress.

Aids in Weight Loss:

It also removes toxins and prevents constipation, leading to weight loss naturally. Plum is rich in fiber and antioxidants, which aid proper digestion and good metabolism. It contains citric acid, which prevents tiredness and cramps. It also improves liver and gastrointestinal function.

Healthy Cholesterol Levels:

Plums contain potassium that is an important component of the cell and body fluids that help in controlling the heart rate and the blood pressure. It also prevents platelet clotting which may result in atherosclerosis, high blood pressure, stroke and coronary heart disease. It also maintains a healthy level of blood pressure. The fiber in plums helps to lower the cholesterol levels.

Natural Laxatives:

Both plums and prunes are known to be effective natural laxatives and can help to maintain regular bowel habits.

Improves Blood Circulation:

Plum and prunes have the increased ability to absorb iron in the body. This ability is due to the high vitamin C content in this fruit. The iron in the plum is highly required for the formation of red blood cells.

Helps Combat Diabetes:

Plums rank quite low in glycemic index, so eating plums controls the blood sugar level and reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The phytonutrients found in plums control the release of glucose into the blood after you have just eaten your meal and regulate the insulin spike between the meals. So, it is recommended that diabetic patients should incorporate plums in their diet as it will not worsen the situation and will keep them healthy.

Immune System: Plums are beneficial in strengthening the immune defense of the body due to the presence of high vitamin C content. It promotes the body’s resistance against various infections and inflammations. Research has shown that oriental plums have immunostimulatory constituents that encourage the production of nitric oxide in the body, impede the metastasis of tumor cells, and are valuable in preventing various diseases.

Pregnancy: Plums and plum products are beneficial during pregnancy, due to the abundance of numerous vitamins and minerals. These beneficial components are vital for eye-sight, development of bones and tissues, and cellular health for the mother and the growing baby. The fiber content aids in preventing constipation and improves digestion. The inclusion of plums as a part of balanced diet helps in fighting various infections and maintains overall health. However, one should be careful regarding the choice of commercially available plum juices as they might contain high amounts of sugar.

Magnesium Content:

Magnesium in plums is necessary for muscle contraction and nervous impulses.

Sources: 

whfoods.com

stylecraze.com

organicfacts.net

Other links:

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