The European plum, discovered around two thousand years ago, originating
in the area near the Caspian Sea, were brought to the United States in the 17th century by the pilgrims. Japanese plums were
introduced to the U.S. in the late 19th century.
Potential Benefits of Plums
Plums have a high antioxidant ability and offer a high level of defence
against free radicals. They are also a source of iron and also contain vitamin E.
Plums have high content of unique phytonutrients called neochlorogenic and
chlorogenic acid. They contain lutein and zeaxanthin, two substances which not only act as powerful antioxidants but also
have an important role in protecting vision. Plums protect against age-related
macular degeneration, primary cause of vision loss in adults.
Eating three or more servings of fruit a day can lower by about one-third
your risk of age-related macular degeneration, the primary cause of vision loss in older adults.
A very important health benefit of eating Plums is that, it acts as a laxative
and improves performance of the digestive system.
Plums increase the absorption of iron into the body which is because
of Vitamin C in it. Vitamin C is needed in the body to make healthy tissue and is also needed for a strong immune system. Plums
are enriched with minerals like Potassium, Magnesium, Manganese, Copper and Phosphorus.
Plums are good source of vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene), vitamin
B2, dietary fiber and potassium.
Antioxidants Facts About Plums
Research suggests that as fruits fully ripen, almost to the point of spoilage,
their antioxidant levels actually increase.
Safty Facts About Plums
Plums contain measurable amounts of oxalates, naturally-occurring substances
found in plants, animals, and human beings. When oxalates become too concentrated in body fluids, they can crystallize and
cause health problems. For this reason, individuals with already existing and untreated kidney or gallbladder problems may
want to avoid eating plums.