Plums - The Superfood for "Killing Insects" and Protecting Health During the Doan Ngo Festival

During the Đoan Ngọ Festival (the 5th day of the 5th lunar month), many provinces in Vietnam, especially in the North, consider plums to be the best fruit for "killing insects." In Vietnam, the Đoan Ngọ Festival is also commonly known as the "Insect Killing Festival." Simply put, this is the day when people mobilize to catch and eliminate pests that harm crops. Another tradition of the Vietnamese during this day is to buy plums early in the morning to offer on the altar. When everyone in the family wakes up, the first thing each person does is eat a few plums to "kill insects."

Plums are not only favored for their delicious taste but also for their fantastic health benefits. Eating about 300 grams of plums daily provides many vitamins and minerals. Vitamin C in plums acts like armor, protecting the body from illness, while vitamin K helps blood "dance" smoothly and keeps bones strong. Plums are also high in fiber, like a good friend aiding the digestive system to function smoothly and preventing constipation.

Plums are superheroes of antioxidants with compounds like anthocyanin and quercetin, protecting cells from free radical damage, slowing down the aging process, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

Regarding heart health, plums are like an in-house cardiologist. Potassium in plums helps regulate blood pressure and maintain a stable heart rate. The fiber in plums is also crucial, helping to lower bad cholesterol and protect cardiovascular health.

Furthermore, plums are ideal companions for weight management. With low calories but rich in nutrients, plums help you feel full longer and reduce cravings, making it easier to maintain your figure without facing hunger pangs.

In short, plums are not only a tasty treat but also a "superfood" that helps protect and improve overall health. During the Đoan Ngọ Festival, don't forget to enjoy a few plums to "kill insects" and reap the fantastic benefits of this fruit.

In Vietnam, Đoan Ngọ Festival is not just about traditional ceremonies but also about practical actions to improve agricultural health. This unique festival brings families together, combining cultural heritage with practical benefits. The early morning ritual of eating plums serves as a reminder of the importance of family, health, and the fight against agricultural pests.

Plums offer an impressive range of health benefits that go beyond their sweet and tangy flavor. With 300 grams of plums, you get a robust supply of vitamins and minerals essential for maintaining good health. Vitamin C, abundant in plums, functions as a protective shield, strengthening the immune system and warding off illnesses. Meanwhile, vitamin K is vital for blood health, ensuring smooth circulation and robust bone health.

Fiber is another critical component found in plums. This nutrient plays a crucial role in promoting a healthy digestive system. By consuming plums, you can help your digestive system operate efficiently, preventing constipation and other digestive issues.

The antioxidant properties of plums are another reason to include them in your diet. Compounds such as anthocyanin and quercetin provide strong protection against free radicals, which can cause cellular damage. By reducing oxidative stress, these antioxidants help slow the aging process and decrease the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

Heart health is significantly enhanced by the consumption of plums. The potassium in plums helps regulate blood pressure and maintain a stable heart rate, functioning much like an in-house cardiologist. The fiber content in plums is also instrumental in lowering bad cholesterol levels, further safeguarding cardiovascular health.

For those managing their weight, plums are an excellent choice. They are low in calories yet rich in nutrients, helping you feel satiated longer and reducing food cravings. This makes it easier to maintain a healthy weight without the discomfort of constant hunger.

In summary, plums are not just a delightful treat but also a superfood that offers numerous health benefits. During the Đoan Ngọ Festival, make sure to enjoy a few plums to "kill insects" and take advantage of the incredible health benefits they provide.