Dried plums: A surprising ally for digestion and weight loss
In this case, dried fruits are even healthier than their fresh counterparts. They contain five times more vitamin A and seven times more fibre. Therefore, they are highly recommended for people on a weight loss diet. But those aren't the only advantages of this delight. Dried plums excel in many areas, as long as you don't overdo it with the quantity.
They 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 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 fibre they contain stimulate the intestines to work, but the effect in the form of a trip to the restroom doesn't come immediately. It takes several hours to carry out the process of cleansing the intestines of unnecessary residues. Therefore, eating a maximum of five plums in the evening is a good idea. It's not worth exceeding this amount because an excess of dried fruits can cause diarrhea.
How do dried plums cleanse the intestines?
The main role is played by sorbitol—a chemical compound that forms from the breakdown of glucose. It is responsible for the development of beneficial intestinal bacteria, which accelerate metabolism. It works in conjunction with fibre—the latter absorbs water and moisturizes the intestines, which translates into easier and more efficient bowel movements. Soluble fibre, which mixes with water, gives a feeling of fullness but also helps in the absorption of good nutrients.
Dried plums in a vegetarian diet
People on a vegetarian diet should pay more attention to them. Dried plums contain a large amount of iron and phosphorus, which meat-eaters obtain from animal tissues. To increase the absorption of these elements, it's advisable to combine plums with foods that contain a large amount of vitamin C, such as citrus fruits. It's also good to ensure a time interval between consuming plums and 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 overly 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 high sugar levels. In 100 grams 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, fibre is released, creating a feeling of fullness.
