Plum

Plums are a very good source of vitamin C. They are also a good source of vitamins Bl, B2, and B6, and dietary fiber. Prunes are a very good source of provitamin A. They are a good source of potassium, thiamin, riboglavin, vitamin B6, boron and dietary fiber.

Several studies have demonstrated that dried plums, or prunes, which contain high amounts of polyphenols, can restore bone mass and structure. In a 3-month study involving 58 postmenopausal women, dried plums significantly increased serum levels of insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) and bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BSAP) activity. Higher levels of both serum IGF-I and BSAP are associated with greater rates of bone formation. Although further studies are desirable, these results suggest that dried plums may have beneficial effects on bone mineral density.

Another study concluded that dried plum polyphenols enhance osteoblast (bone formation) activity. Prunes are a good source of boron, which is believed to play a role in prevention of osteoporosis.In a preliminary study in Japan, plum juice concentrate showed strong in vitro anti-influenza activity against human influenza A, and may be effective in preventing and reducing influenza.

In an 8-week study involving 41 men with mild hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol levels), daily dietary supplementation resulted in significantly lower LDL cholesterol plasma levels. Plums and prunes are both effective laxatives, with prunes being the more effective of the two. The laxative action of both prune and prune juice could be explained by their high sorbitol content.

Consumption of plums helps in the production and absorption of iron in the body, thus leading to better blood circulation in the body, which further leads to the growth of healthy tissues. Regular consumption of plums will prevent macular degeneration and any other infection of the eye in the long run. Your eyes will be healthy and strong for long time and you can also retain a sharp eye-sight. Researchers have found that plums have anti-cancer agents that may help prevent the growth of cancerous cells and tumors in the body. Eating plums also reduces your chances of contracting a heart disease in the long run. Plums have certain cleansing agents that keep the blood pure and also prevent complications of the heart.