Plums are good sources of chlorogenic acid and neochlorogenic acid, compounds in the phenols family which have been well-documented to possess strong antioxidant and anticancer effects.
Talk to your grandparents and they will tell you how healthy prune juice is, with its age-old reputation of being able “to keep you regular,” which is a nice way of saying that prune juice is effective in combating the constipation that is common among the elderly. Prunes are simply dried plums, therefore prune juice is a more concentrated form of plum juice.
Plums, with their large hard pit surrounded by soft, tasty flesh, are in the peach and almond family. Native to China, plums were introduced to northern Europe by the Romans, then they were brought to North America by Spanish missionaries. Today, the main producers of plums are China, the Russian Federation and the United States.
The Healing Powers and Health Benefits of Plum Juice
Plum Juice Nutrition
Plums are an excellent source of vitamin C, and also a good source of vitamin A and K and fiber, even when juiced.
Nutrition Facts
Plum Juice is an excellent source of:
- Vitamin C
- Chlorogenic Acid
- Neochlorogenic acid
Plum Juice is a good source of:
- Vitamin A (beta-carotene)
- Vitamin K
- Pectin
Phytochemicals & Antioxidants in Plum Juice
It goes without saying that, though less concentrated then prune juice, plums have a gentle laxative effect when added to your favorite fruit-juice cocktail. As an added bonus, plums are good sources of chlorogenic acid and neochlorogenic acid, compounds in the phenols family which have been well-documented to possess strong antioxidant and anticancer effects.
Preparing for Juicing
Cut in half down to the pit, then twist flesh off the pit, which is easier with less ripe plums, then juice with skin.
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Plum Juice Tips
If you are fasting and are anything like me, you’ll have no problems with regularity, so I find I must drink prune and plum juice in moderation. My whole digestive system is being washed in soft fruit and vegetable digestible/indigestible fibers, which moves through my digestive track in only a few hours. But for those who find fasting constipating, drinking prune or plum juice is a natural and healthy solution, plum being a little more gentle then fast-acting prune juice.
Picking Perfect Produce
There are over 200 varieties of plums, but regardless of color or size, a ripe plum should give slightly to thumb pressure. Hard plums will ripen in a few days on the counter or in a paper bag. Plums that are a little too firm for eating are perfect for juicing.
Storing Your Produce
When ripe, plums store well in the refrigerator for two to three days.
Taste Combos
Like peaches and nectarines, plum juice can be a little thick for some people’s liking. This can be remedied by mixing it with water, or even better, apple juice.