Dried plums: The surprising superfood for your diet plan
Dried fruits can be healthier than their fresh counterparts. They contain five times more vitamin A and seven times more fiber. Therefore, they are highly recommended for people on a weight loss diet. But that's not all the advantages of this delight. Dried plums excel in many areas, as long as you don't overdo the quantity.
Dried plums most often appear as an addition to roasted pork loin. They are very popular when wrapped in bacon and served as snacks. However, it's worth reaching for them more often than just once a year, especially if you're on a vegetarian diet or want to shed unwanted pounds.
Dried plums – morning or evening?
If you have problems with constipation, regularly consuming a few dried plums at night can be beneficial. The sorbitol and fiber in them stimulate the intestines, but the effect takes several hours. Therefore, eating up to five plums in the evening is a good idea. It's not advisable to exceed this amount because too many dried fruits can cause diarrhea.
How do dried plums cleanse the intestines?
Sorbitol, a chemical compound formed from the breakdown of glucose, plays a key role. It promotes the development of beneficial intestinal bacteria and speeds up metabolism. Sorbitol works with fiber; the latter absorbs water and moisturizes the intestines, facilitating easier bowel movements. Soluble fiber, which mixes with water, provides a feeling of fullness and aids in nutrient absorption.
Dried plums in a vegetarian diet
People on a vegetarian diet should pay particular attention to them. Dried plums contain significant amounts of iron and phosphorus, elements that meat-eaters obtain from animal tissues. To boost the absorption of these nutrients, it's advisable to combine plums with foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits. It's also wise to maintain a time gap between eating plums and consuming foods that inhibit iron absorption, such as coffee, tea, beets, or spinach. An iron deficiency can lead to weakness, drowsiness, and anemia.
Who should avoid dried plums?
People suffering from irritable bowel syndrome should be cautious with dried plums. Sorbitol can over-stimulate the production of gastric acids, resulting in bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.
Diabetics should also avoid excessive consumption due to the high-calorie content and sugar levels. In 3.5 oz of dried plums, there are 360 calories and 38 grams of sugar. If you are on a weight loss diet, stick to the recommended amount. To temporarily satisfy your cravings, you can try sucking on a dried plum. Even during this process, fiber is released, creating a feeling of fullness.
