A fruit that is rich in vitamin C and also has numerous health benefits? It may sound too good to be true, but you’ll definitely want to eat up some plums if you find yourself with the opportunity! Let’s take a look at some of the surprising health benefits of plum that have been found over the years. Enjoy!
Delicious Taste:
Not only is plum good for you, but it also tastes delicious! This fruit is popular in both sweet and savory dishes. It adds a special touch to Asian cuisine and works well with meats like chicken and pork. Sweeteners are not needed when cooking with plums, as they’re naturally very sweet, making them an ideal dessert option. Enjoying plum benefits can be made even easier by freezing whole plum or by adding it to your favorite smoothie recipe!
Rich in Antioxidants:
The deep purple color found in plums is due to their high levels of anthocyanins, which help protect our cells from oxidative stress. They are also a source of phenolic compounds, which are being studied for their effects on heart health. So if you’re looking for a new way to get antioxidants into your diet, look no further than a plump, juicy plum.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals:
Plums are rich in vitamins and minerals, which play a vital role in your general health. In particular, plums contain vitamin C, magnesium, potassium and dietary fiber. Plums are a good source of antioxidants as well. All these nutrients help maintain your body’s normal functions and keep your immune system strong to fight against diseases. They also prevent diseases from developing by neutralizing free radicals in your body that can damage healthy cells if left unchecked for long periods of time.
Supports Overall Health:
Plums are rich in antioxidants and fit well into a healthy diet. Antioxidants are compounds, including some vitamins, that help protect cells from damage. Diets rich in fruit and vegetables are linked to a lower risk of chronic disease, but no single fruit prevents cancer or Alzheimer’s. As you age, it’s important to incorporate more antioxidants into your diet to stay healthy!
Prevent Blood Pressure from Rising:
Plum is a low-sodium fruit, which means it helps to prevent blood pressure from rising. Plum contains a high amount of potassium, which is said to lower blood pressure by moving excess sodium out of cells and into your urine.
Promotes Digestion, Reduces Constipation:
Plum is an excellent source of dietary fiber, which improves digestion and reduces constipation. Prunes (dried plums) are well known for easing constipation. Do not eat plum seeds (kernels), because they contain amygdalin, which releases cyanide. Just be sure to drink lots of water when increasing your fiber intake so you don’t get dehydrated.
Balances Blood Sugar Levels:
Plum contains a significant amount of fiber and is low in sugar, helping to keep blood sugar levels stable. Regular consumption can help lower blood pressure and protect against heart disease and stroke, too. Additionally, plum is rich in potassium, which helps lower blood pressure as well. Potassium is also needed for muscle contractions, including those that help regulate blood pressure.
Improves Heart Health:
Plums are packed with compounds that improve heart health. They contain fibre and anthocyanins that may support healthy cholesterol levels as part of a balanced diet. Additionally, they increase levels of nitric oxide in your blood, which can decrease your blood pressure and reduce your risk for cardiovascular disease.
Protects Liver:
Plum is rich in various antioxidants, namely lycopene and vitamin C. These protect your liver from free radicals, potentially slowing down or preventing disease. Free radicals are molecules that damage cells, causing illnesses like cancer or degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. The inclusion of vitamin C in plum also makes it a powerful immune booster that helps you fight off colds and flus more easily—which keeps you out of your doctor’s office for preventable illnesses!
Boosts Energy Levels Section:
Plums are a terrific, healthy snack in between meals because they’re low-calorie and high in fiber. A 1-cup serving (about eight plum halves) provides just 84 calories and 3 grams of fiber, making it an excellent addition to a weight loss diet. Plums can also help boost your energy levels throughout your day by fighting fatigue and providing lasting energy that lasts through to bedtime!
Soothes Sore Throat
Plums contain antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and pain, making them a great snack for soothing sore throats. Juicy fruit like plums can be soothing when your throat is sore, but it won’t treat an infection. See a doctor if a sore throat lasts more than a week or comes with a high fever.
