The plum season typically spans from April to August annually. Common varieties include rice plum, Japanese plum, three-flower plum, damson plum, and iron plum. While these plums belong to different cultivars, they predominantly share a sweet and sour taste.
In terms of nutritional value, plums are rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. This fruit boosts immunity, aids digestion, and slows down aging.
However, there are certain individuals who should refrain from consuming plums. Overeating plums may lead to adverse health effects.
Who Should Avoid Eating Plums
- Individuals with kidney diseases or a history of kidney stones
Plums contain high levels of oxalate, which can hinder calcium absorption. This may lead to the formation of kidney or bladder stones over time. Therefore, those with chronic kidney conditions or a history of kidney stones should avoid fruits and vegetables high in oxalate, such as plums, to prevent exacerbating their health issues.
- People with stomach ailments
Plums are acidic and may irritate the stomach lining, especially when consumed on an empty stomach. Individuals with stomach-related ailments, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, may experience worsened reflux and abdominal pain after eating plums.
Even healthy individuals should refrain from eating plums excessively when hungry and avoid overeating them in one sitting.
- Pregnant women
With their sweet and sour taste, plums are a tempting treat for many pregnant women, especially during morning sickness. However, plums are considered warming in nature, and overeating them can lead to heat rashes. Since pregnant women tend to have higher body temperatures, it is advisable to limit plum consumption during pregnancy to mitigate heat-related discomfort.
- Individuals with a hot constitution
Those who have a hot constitution and are prone to acne or mouth ulcers should avoid overeating plums. Plums are warming, and excessive consumption may aggravate heat-related conditions. If desired, limit intake to a few plums at a time.
- Individuals taking medication
Research indicates that plums can interact with certain medications, enhancing side effects or reducing treatment efficacy. Specifically, plums alter the effects of anticoagulants and affect antibiotic absorption. Therefore, individuals taking medication should consult their doctors before including plums in their diet.
- Individuals preparing for surgery
Plums contain nutrients that may interact with medications, reducing their therapeutic efficacy. Hence, it is advisable for those anticipating surgery to refrain from eating plums beforehand.
How Many Plums Should You Eat Daily?
According to vtcnews, herbalist Bùi Đắc Sáng recommends consuming only 5-7 plums per day to avoid overburdening the kidneys and digestive system while still reaping the fruit’s benefits.
Additionally, it is worth noting that the practice of dipping plums in salt and chili pepper, while tantalizing, may introduce excessive salt into the body, leading to potential issues like high blood pressure and stomach irritation.
While plums are delectable, moderation is key. Individuals falling into the aforementioned categories should exercise restraint when it comes to consuming this fruit.
