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Health Benefits of Plums & Prunes

Health Benefits of Plums | Health Benefits of Prunes

Plums (Prunus domestica) are a a kind of stone fruit belonging to the subgenus and genus Prunus in the same family of cherries, nectarines, apricots and peaches. Dried plums are often referred to as prunes. Plums originated in China and have been cultivated for thousands of years.

Plums come in a variety of colors including green, red, yellow and purple. Plums can be eaten fresh, dried to make prunes, used as jams, or fermented into wine and distilled into brandy.

Plums have essential vitamins and minerals including, magnesium, manganese, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, vitamin C, copper, vitamin A, vitamin K and B vitamins.

Plums have anti-inflammatory properties. 

Plums are rich in antioxidants, including polyphenols. Antioxidants help fight free radicals in the body and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Studies have shown that plums contain more than twice the amount of polyphenol antioxidants as other popular fruits such as peaches and nectarines.

Plums are rich in fiber. Prunes are a common to treat constipation. 1 prune provides 1 gram of fiber. Studies have shown that people who consumed 2 ounces of prunes every day for three weeks had better stool consistency and frequency compared to others who consume psyllium husk instead.

Plums may help regulate blood sugar levels due to its fiber content and help promote weight loss. Plums may also promote heart health. Studies have shown that people who consumed prunes and prune juice had significantly lowered their blood pressure levels, total cholesterol and bad cholesterol levels.

Plums may also promote bone health. Studies have shown that consuming prunes reduced the risk of osteoporosis and osteopenia.

Plums may boost your immunity and promote eye health, brain health and oral health.

Plums may also help manage anxiety.

Excess plum consumption may lead to diarrhea. If you are allergic to plums then please do not consume.

As always consult with your physician.

Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plum

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-plums-prunes

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/plum-nutrition-facts

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26992121/