Plums are typically in season from April through August annually. Common varieties include greengage plums, Italian plums, tri-flower plums, Damson plums, and sand plums. While these plums belong to different cultivars, they mostly share a sweet and sour taste.
Nutritionally, plums are rich in vitamins A and C, fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. They offer immune-boosting, digestive support, and anti-aging properties.
However, there are certain individuals who should avoid consuming plums. Overindulging in plums may lead to some health concerns.
Who Should Avoid Eating Plums
- Individuals with kidney disease or a history of kidney stones
Plums are high in oxalates, which can interfere with calcium absorption, leading to crystallization in the kidneys and the formation of kidney or bladder stones over time. Therefore, those with chronic kidney disease or a history of kidney stones should refrain from consuming oxalate-rich fruits and vegetables like plums to prevent exacerbating their condition.
- People with stomach ailments
Plums are acidic and can irritate the stomach lining, especially when consumed on an empty stomach. Individuals with stomach-related issues, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, may experience adverse symptoms like intensified reflux and abdominal pain after eating plums.
Even healthy individuals should refrain from eating plums when hungry or in excessive quantities at once.
- Pregnant women
With their sweet and sour taste, plums can be enticing to pregnant women, especially during morning sickness. However, plums are considered warming in nature, and consuming too many can lead to skin rashes and increased body heat. Since pregnant women tend to have higher body temperatures, it is advisable to limit plum consumption during pregnancy to mitigate these effects.
- Individuals with a hot constitution
Those with a hot constitution, prone to acne and mouth ulcers, should refrain from eating excessive amounts of plums. Plums have a warming effect, and overconsumption can aggravate these conditions. If desired, limit consumption to a few plums at a time.
- Individuals taking medication
Research indicates that plums may interact with certain medications, enhancing side effects or reducing treatment efficacy. Specifically, plums can alter the effects of anticoagulants and impact 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, potentially reducing the effectiveness of surgical procedures. As such, it is advisable for those preparing for surgery to refrain from consuming plums prior to the operation.
How Many Plums Should You Eat Daily?
According to vtcnews, herbalist Bui Dac Sang recommends limiting plum consumption to 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 tasty, may introduce excessive salt into the body, leading to elevated blood pressure and stomach irritation.
While plums are delicious, moderation is key. Individuals falling into the above categories should exercise caution when consuming this fruit.
