Summer is the season for ripe and juicy plums. These tart and crunchy fruits are a favorite for many. While plums offer high nutritional value, they should be consumed in moderation to avoid any adverse effects on your health.
Avoid Overeating Plums
The plum referred to here is the Northern plum, distinct from the Southern plum or “king plum.” Plum season typically spans from April to August annually, with various cultivars such as rice plum, honey plum, iron plum, and three-flower plum. Generally, all types of plums boast high nutritional value, with minimal differences. This fruit is typically rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. These nutrients aid digestion, slow down the aging process, and boost immunity.
Despite their nutritional benefits, plums should not be consumed in excess. Overeating plums can lead to internal heat, mouth ulcers, and acne breakouts. Individuals with a hot body constitution are particularly susceptible to these issues.
Additionally, excessive plum consumption may impact the stomach, causing acid reflux and gut irritation, especially when consumed on an empty stomach.
Excessive Plum Consumption May Increase the Risk of Kidney Stones
Plums contain high levels of oxalate. When combined with calcium, oxalate forms precipitates, reducing calcium absorption in the intestines. Over time, this can lead to calcium deposits in the kidneys and urinary tract, resulting in the formation of kidney stones.
Individuals with a history of kidney stones or a high risk of developing them should refrain from consuming large quantities of plums to prevent exacerbating their condition.
How Many Plums Should You Eat Daily?
Plums are delicious and packed with nutrients, offering numerous health benefits. However, moderation is key. According to VTC News, to avoid overburdening your digestive and renal systems while still reaping the benefits of plums, herbalist Bui Dac Sang recommends limiting your intake to 5-7 plums per day.
Additionally, individuals with stomach, liver, or kidney ailments should exercise moderation when consuming plums.
Pregnant women can eat plums but should do so in moderation to prevent internal heat, mouth ulcers, and acne breakouts.
It is also advisable to refrain from consuming plums with excessive salt and spicy chili peppers. While this combination may enhance the flavor, it can irritate the stomach and increase the risk of digestive issues. High salt intake is also detrimental to blood pressure and cardiovascular health.
Selecting Ripe Plums and Proper Cleaning
When purchasing plums, opt for those with a round, intact shape and an unblemished, unwrinkled skin. A white powdery coating on the skin is natural and serves as a self-preservation mechanism for the fruit. Plums with a glossy skin and a thin layer of natural powder are freshly harvested and of superior quality.
For a crisp and sweet taste, choose plums with a color transitioning from green to red. If you prefer your plums softer and sweeter, select fully red ones. However, avoid overly soft plums as they may be overripe or fermented.
Refrain from buying plums that are bruised, scratched, infested with insects, or bearing fingernail marks.
Before consuming, thoroughly rinse the plums and soak them in a dilute salt solution for about 30 minutes to eliminate any surface contaminants. Rinsing under running water helps dislodge dirt and bacteria.
