Nutrition & Lifestyle Coach Charlotte Lau
explores the benefits of incorporating another healthy ingredient into our diets. This month she’s focusing in on plums

As August progresses, the plum emerges as a standout fruit, representing the peak of summer produce and, for me, it brings back memories of childhood summers spent in the garden, trying to select the juiciest plum! With over 2,000 varieties worldwide, plums offer a delicious flavour and valuable nutritional contributions to a balanced lifestyle.
Plums are rich in vitamins C and K, which are best absorbed when consumed with a light source of healthy fat and quality protein, for sustained energy. Slicing them into yoghurt at breakfast or a salad at lunch ensures their nutritional benefits are maximised, both of which play crucial roles in supporting immune function and maintaining healthy bones. The deep purple skin contains anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage.
Plums also provide a good source of dietary fibre, which aids digestion and supports stable blood sugar levels. Whether enjoyed fresh, blended into a morning smoothie, or added to a summer salad, plums offer a refreshing and nutritious option. As summer reaches its peak, let plums remind us of the nutritional and lifestyle benefits that come with eating seasonally; they are typically fresher, tastier and contain higher levels of nutrients when consumed during their natural growing season.

Antioxidant rich plum and feta salad

Serves 1

  • 4 ripe plums, sliced
  • 2 cups fresh rocket
  • ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • salt and pepper, to taste

In a large bowl, toss the rocket with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Gently fold in the sliced plums and scatter the crumbled feta over the top. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, adjusting to taste. Serve immediately and enjoy the sweet and savoury flavours of this light summer dish.

Charlotte runs Plume Nutrition, where she offers support and advice for weight management, controlling cravings, sleeplessness, stress and increasing energy levels. Find out more at plumenutrition.com


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