A Little Back Story!
Plums share the same genus – Prunus – as nectarines, peaches, apricots, almonds, and cherries.
The earliest remains date as far back as the Neolithic age – 10,000 BCE – along with the remains of figs, grapes and olives, and maybe one of the first domesticated fruits. Plums are actually a berry and are mentioned by Confucius in his writings in the 3rd century BCE. It is believed that Pompey the Great introduced plums to Rome in 65 BCE, where they spread to the Mediterranean by Alexander the Great, and from there by the crusaders. It is believed that the plum originated in the area of the Caspian Sea. Plums made their way to the New World via early settlers in the 1600’s. Today plums are one of the world’s most popular fruits!
Nutritional Benefits
Plums are very low in calories, fats, and carbohydrates, and are thus a wonderful food for those who are dieting. They are also low on the glycemic index, which is great news for diabetics. Plums are rich in antioxidant vitamins C and A and are an excellent source of beta-carotene, B-complex compounds, fiber, isatin, and sorbitol. These last 2 compounds help maintain healthy digestion and relieve constipation. Plums are also rich in the powerful antioxidants cryptoxanthin, zeaxanthin and lutein.
Latest Research
The particular antioxidants found in plums have been demonstrated to reduce and possibly reverse the effects of ageing! More reason to pop that plum or prune each day in addition to your new plum juice recipe!
Plum Juice Recipe
INGREDIENTS
- 2 Plums
- 1 Apple
- 1/2 Beet
- 2 Carrots
- 4 leaves of Spinach
- 1 thin slice of fresh Ginger
- For a great smoothie add 2 tablespoons Walnuts, 2 tablespoons of Chia seeds, and 1 cup of oat milk.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 20 oz.