Nutritional Value of Plums
Plums are a popular summer fruit loved for their delicious sweet and sour taste and abundant nutrients. This fruit is packed with vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that boosts immunity, slows down aging, and promotes healthy skin. Additionally, the vitamin A found in plums is excellent for eye health and contributes to smoother skin.
Beyond their delicious taste and vitamin content, especially vitamin C, plums offer a significant amount of dietary fiber, aiding digestion and reducing the risk of constipation. Essential minerals such as potassium, iron, and magnesium found in plums help maintain electrolyte balance, support cardiovascular health, and benefit the nervous and skeletal systems. With their low-calorie content, plums are also an ideal choice for those watching their weight.
However, as beneficial as they are, plums may not be suitable for everyone. Certain groups of people should exercise caution when consuming this fruit because even “delicious things should be enjoyed by the right people.”
Who Should Avoid Eating Plums
1. Individuals with Stomach Issues
Plums have a sour taste and contain organic acids that can irritate the stomach lining, increase stomach acid secretion, and cause pain. For those with stomach ulcers or acid reflux, consuming plums, especially unripe plums, may aggravate their symptoms. If they still wish to eat plums, it is advisable to choose ripe plums, consume them in small quantities after a main meal.
2. People with Diarrhea or Digestive Disorders
Due to their high fiber content and laxative effect, plums are not recommended for individuals experiencing diarrhea or suffering from intestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome. Eating plums during these episodes may prolong the condition, leading to dehydration and further weakening the body.
3. Individuals with a History of Kidney Stones
Plums contain oxalic acid, which can combine with calcium to form oxalate crystals, contributing to the formation of kidney stones. People who have had kidney stones or are at high risk should limit their consumption of plums, especially plum products like salted or dried plums, which tend to have higher oxalate levels.
4. Individuals with a “Hot” Body Constitution
Plums are considered a “hot” fruit, and consuming too many can lead to mouth ulcers, acne, or rashes, especially in those with a “hot” body constitution. To avoid these side effects, it is advisable to eat plums in moderation and ensure adequate water and green vegetable intake to maintain a balanced body.
5. Post-Surgery Patients or Those Undergoing Medical Treatment
Individuals who have recently undergone surgery, particularly involving the digestive system, should refrain from eating plums during their recovery period. Certain compounds in plums may irritate the mucous membranes or interfere with drug absorption, reducing the effectiveness of the treatment.
