Health benefits of plum: 10 reasons to eat more plums this monsoon

Plums are common during the monsoon season. This tangy and sweet fruit is full of minerals and antioxidants. Here is a list of health benefits of plums.

Sweet, a bit tangy, covered in reddish-blue skin, plums make an appearance during monsoon. Plums are known as Aloo Bukhara in Hindi and are produced mainly in Himachal Pradesh and Punjab. This sweet fruit is loaded with minerals and is a great source of potassium. It is also rich in antioxidants, protecting the body against cell-damaging free radicals. Plums are also low in calories and hence will not increase your blood sugar levels. Here is a list of health benefits of this super fruit. (ALSO READ Health benefits of watermelon: 10 reasons to eat more watermelon this summer).

1. Improves the health of your heart

Rich in antioxidants, plum improves and maintains the health of your heart. The antioxidants fights the free radicals, preventing heart diseases and stroke scares. Antioxidants prevent oxidation of cholesterol and help in maintaining the health of the heart.

2. Relieves constipation

Plum relieves constipation

Plums contain isatin and sorbitol, which help relieve constipation and improve digestion. It also keeps the bowel healthy. You can have plums or dried plums, which are known as prunes, to get relief from constipation and other digestive issues.

3. Protects against cancer

The reddish blue color of the skin of the plum is due to the pigment, anthocyanins, which also fights free radicals. Plum also protects against breast cancer, cavity and oral cancer. (ALSO READ Health benefits of papaya: 10 amazing health benefits of eating papaya).

4. Improves circulation of blood

Plums improve the body’s ability to absorb iron. The fruit also contains iron, which is required for the production of blood cells. Eating plums will improve the circulation of blood.

5. Lowers cholesterol levels

Prunes

The fruit contains soluble fiber, which helps reduce cholesterol levels and inhibit the production of cholesterol in the liver. The soluble fiber soaks up the bile, which is produced using cholesterol. So, when the bile is soaked up by the soluble fiber in the fruit, the liver uses cholesterol stored in the body, thereby lowering the cholesterol levels.

6. Good for your skin

Consuming plum firms your skin and clears your skin texture. The fruit reduces wrinkles and rejuvenates your skin. Drink plum juice for younger looking skin. (ALSO READ Health benefits of water: This is why you should drink more water).

7. Good for your bones

According to several studies, consuming plums improves bone health. Plums contain boron, which is important for preservation of bone density and maintaining bone health. The fruit is also rich in flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which reverse the loss of bone.

8. Reduces the appearance of scars

Reduces the appearance of scar

Plums increase the blood circulation to the scar, helping development of new skin and reducing the appearance of the scar. It helps the skin to heal faster and replace damaged skin with new skin. Consuming plums also improve skin texture and elasticity. It also reduces the appearance of dark spots, freckles and treats other skin conditions.

9. Treats hair fall and promotes hair growth

Plums stop hair fall by reversing the adrenal gland fatigue. It also promotes hair growth as it has high content of iron and it improves blood circulation. Eat plums if you want to have thicker and stronger hair. (ALSO READ Health benefits of coconut oil: These are 7 amazing health benefits of coconut oil).

10. Improves immunity

Eating plums will keep cold and flu at bay by improving your immunity. The fruit boosts your immunity and promotes development of healthy tissues.

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