Summer is the season for juicy, ripe plums. These tart and sweet fruits with a crisp bite have captivated many. While plums offer significant nutritional benefits, 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 available, such as rice plum, honey plum, steel plum, and three-flower plum. Generally, all types of plums boast high nutritional value without significant differences. This fruit is an excellent source of dietary 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 constitution are particularly prone to these issues.
Additionally, consuming too many plums may impact your stomach, causing acid reflux and gut irritation, especially when eaten on an empty stomach.
Overindulging in Plums May Increase the Risk of Kidney Stones
Plums contain high levels of oxalate, which, when combined with calcium, forms precipitates that reduce calcium absorption in the intestines. Over time, this can lead to calcium deposits in the kidneys and urinary tract, forming stones.
Individuals with a history of kidney stones or a high risk of developing them should refrain from eating excessive plums to prevent exacerbating their condition.
How Many Plums Should You Eat in a Day?
Plums are delicious and packed with nutrients, but 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, uniform shape and intact skin free from scratches, bruises, or insect damage. A white powdery substance on the surface is natural and indicates the plum’s self-preservation mechanism. Plums with a glossy skin coated in a thin layer of powder are freshly harvested and of superior quality.
For a crisp, sweet-tart experience, choose plums with a color transition from green to red. If you prefer your plums softer and sweeter, select fully red, ripe ones. However, avoid overly soft or bruised plums, as they may be overripe or fermented.
Refrain from buying plums with signs of tampering, such as fingernail marks or insect infestations.
Before consuming, thoroughly rinse the plums and soak them in a dilute salt solution for about 30 minutes to eliminate any surface contaminants. Washing plums under running water helps remove dirt and bacteria.
