Plums are a delicious and nutritious fruit with only 80 calories per serving. If you are looking for a healthy snack that won't ruin your diet, plums are a great option. They are also packed with vitamins, minerals, and Fiber, making them an excellent addition to any diet.
In addition to being low in calories, plums are also low in carbs, making them a great option for anyone watching their carbohydrate intake. They are also rich in Antioxidants, which can help protect against cell damage and may have anti-inflammatory effects.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at the many health benefits of eating plums, from promoting Heart health to enhancing Bone health.
Plums are Low in Calories
One of the main benefits of eating plums is that they are low in calories. This makes them an excellent option for anyone trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. A one-cup serving of sliced plums contains only 80 calories, making them a great choice for a snack or dessert. Despite their low calorie content, plums are packed with nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and Fiber. Eating plums regularly can help you meet your daily nutrient needs without overdoing it on calories. Overall, plums are a great food to include in a healthy, balanced diet. They are low in calories but high in nutrients, making them an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their overall health and well-being.
Plums are Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
In addition to being low in calories, plums are also packed with vitamins and minerals. A one-cup serving of sliced plums contains approximately 15% of your daily recommended intake of Vitamin C, 6% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin K, and 4% of your daily recommended intake of potassium. These vitamins and minerals play important roles in various bodily functions. Vitamin C, for example, is essential for a healthy immune system and can help protect against illness and disease. Vitamin K is important for bone health and may also have a role in blood clotting. Potassium is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels and can help reduce the risk of heart disease. By including plums in your diet, you can help ensure that you are meeting your daily recommended intake of these important vitamins and minerals.
Plums are High in Fiber
Fiber is an important nutrient that can help promote Digestive health, regulate blood sugar levels, and reduce the risk of heart disease. Plums are an excellent source of fiber, with a one-cup serving containing approximately 2 grams of fiber. Fiber can also help you feel full for longer periods of time, which can be beneficial for anyone trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. By including plums in your diet, you can help boost your fiber intake and improve your overall health and well-being. If you are looking for a delicious and nutritious way to increase your fiber intake, plums are an excellent option.
Plums are Low in Carbs
If you are following a low-carb diet, plums are a great option to include in your meal plan. A one-cup serving of sliced plums contains only 18 grams of carbohydrates, making them a relatively low-carb fruit. Despite being low in carbs, plums are still packed with nutrients and can help you meet your daily recommended intake of vitamins, minerals, and Fiber. They are also delicious and satisfying, making them a great addition to any meal or snack. By including plums in your low-carb diet, you can enjoy a variety of health benefits without sacrificing taste or nutrition.
Plums Contain Antioxidants
Antioxidants are compounds that can help protect against cell damage and may have anti-inflammatory effects. Plums are a rich source of antioxidants, including phenols and anthocyanins. By eating plums regularly, you can help protect your cells from damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer's disease. Overall, plums are an excellent source of antioxidants and can be a valuable addition to any healthy, balanced diet.
Plums Help with Digestion
If you are looking to improve your Digestive health, plums are a great option to include in your diet. They are high in Fiber, which can help promote regularity and prevent constipation. Plums also contain sorbitol, a sugar alcohol that has a natural laxative effect. Eating plums can help stimulate bowel movements and prevent digestive discomfort. By including plums in your diet, you can help promote healthy digestion and prevent digestive issues such as constipation and bloating.
Plums May Help Lower Cholesterol
High Cholesterol is a risk factor for heart disease, which is the leading cause of death worldwide. Fortunately, plums may have cholesterol-lowering effects. Plums contain compounds called phytochemicals, which may help reduce cholesterol levels in the blood. In one study, participants who ate dried plums daily experienced a significant reduction in LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. By including plums in your diet, you may be able to reduce your risk of heart disease and improve your overall health.
Plums Can Help Prevent Cancer
In addition to their other health benefits, plums may also have anti-cancer effects. They are rich in Antioxidants, which can help protect against cell damage that can lead to cancer. Plums also contain compounds called flavonoids, which may help prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells. In one study, a compound found in plums called chlorogenic acid was found to inhibit the growth of cancer cells in the liver. By including plums in your diet, you may be able to reduce your risk of cancer and improve your overall health and well-being.
Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. Fortunately, plums may have a number of health benefits that can help promote Heart health. Plums contain potassium, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. They are also low in sodium, which can help further reduce the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease. By including plums in your diet, you can help promote heart health and reduce your risk of heart disease.
Plums Can Enhance Bone Health
Maintaining healthy bones is important for overall health and well-being. Plums may be able to help enhance bone health thanks to their vitamin K content. Vitamin K is essential for bone health and can help improve bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. A one-cup serving of sliced plums contains approximately 6% of your daily recommended intake of vitamin K. By including plums in your diet, you can help improve your bone health and reduce the risk of bone-related conditions.
Plums are a delicious and nutritious fruit that can help promote overall health and well-being.
5 Frequently Asked Questions about Plums
1. How many calories are in one serving of plums?
One serving of plums typically contains 80 calories. However, the exact calorie count will depend on factors such as the size and type of plum.
2. What are the health benefits of eating plums?
Plums are a good source of Antioxidants, vitamins, and Fiber. They may help improve digestion, boost immunity, prevent cell damage, and even lower the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
3. How should I store plums?
Plums should be stored at room temperature until they are ripe, and then can be refrigerated to keep them fresh for a few days. Avoid storing them in airtight containers or plastic bags, as this can cause them to spoil more quickly.
4. Can I eat the skin of a plum?
Yes, the skin of a plum is safe to eat and actually contains a lot of the fruit's fiber and nutrients. However, some people may prefer to peel the plum if they find the skin to be tough or bitter.
5. How can I incorporate plums into my diet?
Plums can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, such as eaten fresh as a snack, added to smoothies or yogurt bowls, baked into desserts, or even grilled as a savory side dish. They can also be used to make jams or sauces to add flavor to other dishes.