What is Plum (Aloo Bukhara)? and The Health Benefits of Plum
Plum, also known as Aloo Bukhara, is a delicious and nutritious fruit that is enjoyed all around the world. It is a small, juicy fruit that is typically round or oval in shape and comes in a range of colors, including purple, red, and yellow. In this article, we will explore what Plum is and discuss the health benefits that this fruit has to offer.
What is Plum (Aloo Bukhara)?
Plum is a fruit that belongs to the Prunus genus, which also includes other fruits such as cherries, peaches, and apricots. It is thought to have originated in the area around the Caspian Sea, but today it is grown in many different parts of the world. Plum trees typically grow to be around 20 feet tall and have dark green leaves that turn yellow in the fall.
Plums are typically harvested in the late summer and early fall, and they are enjoyed both fresh and dried. Fresh plums have a sweet and juicy flavor, while dried plums, which are also known as prunes, have a more concentrated sweetness and a chewy texture.
The Health Benefits of Plum
Plums are packed with nutrients that make them an excellent addition to a healthy diet. Here are some of the health benefits of plum that you should know about:
High in Antioxidants
Plums are a rich source of antioxidants, which are compounds that help to protect your body from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage your cells and contribute to a range of health problems, including cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.
The antioxidants in plums help to neutralize free radicals, reducing their harmful effects on your body. In fact, plums are one of the top fruits for antioxidant content, with a 100-gram serving providing up to 6,100 ORAC units, a measure of antioxidant activity.
May Help Lower Cholesterol
Plums are also a good source of fiber, which can help to lower cholesterol levels. Fiber binds to cholesterol in your digestive tract, preventing it from being absorbed into your bloodstream. This can help to lower your LDL cholesterol levels, which is the “bad” cholesterol that is associated with an increased risk of heart disease.
In addition to fiber, plums also contain compounds called phenolic acids, which have been shown to have cholesterol-lowering effects. One study found that drinking plum juice every day for eight weeks led to a significant decrease in LDL cholesterol levels.
Supports Digestive Health
Plums are a good source of fiber, which is important for maintaining digestive health. Fiber helps to keep your digestive system moving smoothly, preventing constipation and promoting regular bowel movements. This can help to prevent a range of digestive problems, including hemorrhoids, diverticulitis, and irritable bowel syndrome.
In addition to fiber, plums also contain sorbitol, a type of sugar alcohol that has a mild laxative effect. This can help to promote bowel regularity and prevent constipation.
May Help Improve Bone Health
Plums are a good source of several nutrients that are important for bone health, including vitamin K, potassium, and magnesium. These nutrients help to support the formation and maintenance of healthy bones.
In addition, plums also contain polyphenols, which are compounds that have been shown to have bone-protective effects. One study found that consuming plums every day for six months led to an increase in bone density in postmenopausal women.
May Help Prevent Cancer
Plums are rich in antioxidants, which have been shown to have anti-cancer effects. In particular, the anthocyanins in plums have been shown to have potent anti-cancer properties.
