Overview of the health benefits of plums

As a traditional medicinal and food ingredient, plums have multiple health-preserving effects such as promoting body fluids and quenching thirst, aiding digestion, and antioxidants. Its core value is reflected in the fact that it is rich in organic acids, vitamins and minerals, which can promote metabolism and relieve fatigue. Secondary effects include regulating intestinal flora, assisting in lipid lowering, etc. The content will revolve aroundMain functions(such as appetizer, digestion, antioxidant) andsecondary function(such as protecting the liver, improving anemia), combining modern research and ancient book records to avoid exaggerated statements.

Produces fluid, quenches thirst and aids digestion

of plumsCitric acid, malic acidOrganic acids such as these can stimulate saliva secretion and relieve dry mouth. The ancient book "Compendium of Materia Medica" calls it "relieving polydipsia and benefiting the liver and gallbladder." Modern research shows that plum extract can promote pepsin activity, and eating a small amount of pickled plums or dried prunes before meals can whet your appetite. Japan's "Kishu Plum" brand launches additive-free umeboshi, which is marketed as aiding digestion. However, people with higher salt content should be careful not to overeat.

Antioxidant and anti-aging

Plum containspolyphenols(such as chlorogenic acid), its antioxidant capacity is more than 5 times that of vitamin E. Research from National Taiwan University found that plum extract can reduce free radical damage and delay skin aging. The green plum drink launched by domestic manufacturers such as "Liu Liu Mei" uses this as a promotional point, but it must be clearly labeled as "auxiliary antioxidant" rather than therapeutic effect. In addition, the iron in plums is also helpful in improving mild anemia.

Regulate intestinal tract and assist metabolism

The dietary fiber and organic acids of plums can promote intestinal peristalsis. Experiments at Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University have shown that plum fermentation liquid can regulate the balance of intestinal flora. The plum sauce produced by Japan's "Nagatanien" contains probiotics and is suitable for eating with meals. It should be noted that those with excessive gastric acid should eat fresh plums with caution, and can choose low-sugar plum paste or diluted plum vinegar.

Summary and scientific food recommendations

The health-preserving effects of plums need to be taken in scientifically combined with your physical constitution. It is recommended that healthy people eat 3-5 prunes (approximately 20 grams) per day, and patients with diabetes should choose sugar-free prunes. Manufacturer's products such as "Tongrentang" plum enzyme, "COFCO" plum wine, etc. must be labeled for suitable groups. The ancient book "Dietotherapeutic Materia Medica" and modern research all support its value, but it cannot replace medicine.

Quote sources:
1. "Compendium of Materia Medica" by Li Shizhen (Ming Dynasty), entry on plums
2. National Taiwan University Institute of Food Science and Technology "Research on the Antioxidant of Plum Polyphenols" (2018)
3. Product description on the official website of Japan Kishu Plum Farmers’ Cooperative
4. Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University "Effects of Plum Fermentation Broth on Intestinal Microbiota" (2020)