5 Proven Health Benefits Of Plums

Plums, popularly referred to as Aloo Bukhara in Hindi, are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and are used in the traditional medicine for the various health benefits, unique flavour and taste. Though it does not offer ideal weather conditions for its mass plantations, yet India produces around 12 varieties of Plums. Most of the plums in India are in the form of prunes, chutney, sauce etc. barring couple of summer months, when they are abundantly available across India.

Plums are medium-sized fruits. Two of the most common varieties have dark purple-red skin with yellow flesh internally, both of which are edible. It has an inedible stone in the centre. Plums have a sweet and tangy taste. The fresh form of the fruit is known as plum while the dried form is known as prunes.

# Boosts digestion

The fibre, sorbitol, and isatin content of aloobukhara help in regulating the digestive system.

1. Sorbitol and isatin have a laxative effect thus, helpful in treating constipation.

2. Certain polyphenols and carotenoids of plums aids stimulate gastrointestinal digestion.

3. Prunes help in improving stool frequency and consistency.

# Promotes eye health

1. The vitamin C and beta-carotene contents of plum help in promoting eye health and in preventing age-related macular degeneration and cataract.

2. The lutein, carotenoids, and zeaxanthin content protects against the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays.

# Boosts immunity

Plums Aloo Bukhara possess immune-enhancing properties. The high vitamin C content of plum helps in strengthening the immunity system. Vitamin C builds the body’s resistance against infections.

# Boosts bone health

1. The boron content of plum is essential for the preservation of bone density and maintenance of bone health.

2. The rich content of flavonoids and phenolic compounds helps in reversing the loss of bone.

3. The vitamin K content of plum helps enhance calcium balance in the body, thus boosting bone health.

4. Consumption of prunes is linked with a decrease in the risk of osteoporosis.

# Other possible Benefits

Plums produce several health benefits, apart from the health benefits mentioned above, it also produces few more such as aids diabetes, prevents cancer, protects the heart, promotes cognitive health,improves blood circulation,lowers cholesterol levels, promotes skin health, reduces the appearance of scars, treats hair fall, promotes hair growth, reduces cell damage, helps in weight loss, prevents oxidative damage, and provides relief from anxiety.