5 Impressive Benefits of Plums for Health as plums are medium-sized stone fruits liked by everyone. This little dark-coloured fruit has very much health benefits.
The most popular variety has dark purple-red skin with yellow flesh inside, you can also find plums that are green-yellow.
All varieties have a stone in the center of the fruit which is not edible. Their dried form is known as prunes.
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Nutrition
5 Impressive Benefits of Plums for Health. An 80g serving provides:
| Nutrient | Quantity |
| Energy | 29Kcal / 124KJ |
| Proteins | 0.5g |
| Fat | 0.1g |
| Carbohydrates | 7.0g |
| Fiber | 1.7g |
| Potassium | 192mg |
Benefits
1. Rich in antioxidants
Plums are packed with plant compounds that have antioxidant properties, this means they help prevent oxygen from reacting with other chemicals and causing damage to cells and tissues.
They are especially rich in anthocyanins, the compounds also responsible for the plum’s dark-colored skin. Studies suggest plums are richer in these protective compounds than other fruits including peaches and nectarines.
2. Anti-inflammatory properties
The protective plant compounds in plums appear to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help prevent diseases including cancer, diabetes, and obesity.
3. Help manage blood sugar levels
Plums are especially rich in a polyphenol called chlorogenic acid, a compound also found in coffee, this appears to help balance blood sugar and regulate appetite.
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Consuming the whole fruit ensures you benefit from its rich fiber content, which helps slow the release of its natural sugars. 5 Impressive Benefits of Plums for Health.
4. May Support Heart Health
Plums are rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals, including calcium, which ensures blood clots normally. They also supply potassium and vitamin C as well as being rich in protective polyphenols all of which are associated with reduced cardiovascular risk factors.
5. May enhance cognitive function
Animal studies suggest that the rich polyphenol content of plums may help mitigate age-related cognitive decline. 5 Impressive Benefits of Plums for Health.
Risks
Some people are allergic to plums. They fall into the ‘birch pollen’ category of allergens, along with apples and peaches, and they may cause itching and swelling of the mouth or throat in those affected.
Allergy symptoms normally develop within minutes, and you should see your GP if you experience an adverse reaction.
However, if this develops into a severe reaction, known as anaphylaxis, it is a medical emergency.
