A Plum, Not a Prune

Plums are much more closely related to prunes that you might think. Officially, any   tree or shrub in the genus Prunus are considered plum trees/shrubs. Popular, refreshing dessert fruits, plums are eating fresh and incorporated into a wide variety of sweets and pastries. Certain plums can be dehydrated into prunes. Damsons, Japanese plums, and European plums are all common plum varieties.

Several species of plum are designated Old World species. P. domestica is said to have originated around the Caspian Sea almost 2,000 years ago.

Japanese plums, even older than these, are also the more common commercial plum. So, what’s kept these plums popular over generations?

• High in fiber and therefore good for gut health! Also, the high fiber content can help relieve constipation.
• Plums contain a rich variety of antioxidants. Several studies, including one published by Cornell and the NIH, have shown that plums have anti-inflammatory properties.
• Anthocyanins, which plums contain, may reduce risk of heart disease and cancer.
• Plums may increase levels of a blood sugar-regulating hormone, thereby reducing blood sugar levels overall.
• Prunes aren’t going to make you prune-y. They are conducive to bone health, reducing risk of bone conditions like osteoporosis and osteopenia.

Are you convinced? Add more plums to your diet & tell us what you think!