The plum season typically spans from April to August annually. Common varieties include Japanese plums, plum salicina, plum trichocarpa, plum tamarind, and iron plum. While these plums belong to different species, they mostly share a sweet and sour taste.
In terms of nutritional value, 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 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 and lead to the formation of kidney or bladder stones over time. Those suffering from chronic kidney ailments or with a history of kidney stones should steer clear of oxalate-rich fruits and vegetables like plums to prevent exacerbating their condition.
- People with stomach ailments
Plums are high in acid content, which can irritate the stomach lining, especially when consumed on an empty stomach. Individuals with stomach-related issues, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, may experience worsened reflux and abdominal pain after eating plums.
Even healthy individuals are advised to refrain from eating plums when hungry and to avoid overeating them at once.
- Pregnant women
With their sweet and sour taste, plums can be appealing to pregnant women, especially during morning sickness. However, plums are considered heating in nature, and consuming too many can lead to heat-related issues such as rashes. Since pregnant women tend to have higher body temperatures, it is advisable to limit plum intake during pregnancy to mitigate heat-related discomfort.
- Individuals with a hot body constitution
Those who have a hot body constitution, are acne-prone, or suffer from mouth ulcers should avoid overeating plums. The heating nature of plums 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 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 anesthesia, potentially reducing the effectiveness of the procedure. As such, it is advisable for individuals anticipating surgery to refrain from consuming plums beforehand.
How Many Plums Should You Eat Daily?
According to VTC News, herbalist Bui Dac Sang recommends limiting plum consumption to 5-7 plums per day. This helps maintain a healthy balance, avoiding strain on the kidneys and digestive system while still reaping the fruit’s benefits.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that the common practice of dipping plums in salt and chili pepper can be detrimental due to the excessive salt intake, which may elevate blood pressure and irritate the stomach.
While plums offer a delightful flavor, moderation is key. Individuals falling under the aforementioned categories should exercise caution and limit their plum intake accordingly.
