U is for Umeboshi Plums

I was wondering what I could do for the letter U in this series of the Alphabet of Healthy Foods and after a little research found this amazing food Umeboshi Plums.

In the interest of good health journalism, I visited a wonderful Japanese restaurant called Nana’s Japanese in Leamington Spa to taste them for you, as I had never tried them before, so today it is U for Umeboshi Plums.

These plums are packed with good nutrition and if like me you like to experience different foods why not try them? They are also packed with the most interesting and unique flavours.

🌸 Umeboshi plums are a traditional Japanese fermented food eaten as an accompaniment to rice. Fermentation is an ancient method of preserving food which is a source of beneficial probiotic and prebiotic bacteria so excellent for gut health. As previously discussed, the gut is often considered to be the second brain.

🌸 Fermented foods are easy for the body to digest and the health benefits include improved immune function, supporting heart health and may improve symptoms of anxiety, stress, and depression. Fermented foods also enhance the body's ability to absorb important nutrients.

🌸 Umeboshi plums have a fruity yet salty and sour distinct flavour which I had never experienced before but found delicious. I tried three different types and will be buying some of the paste to add to rice dishes.

🌸 Umeboshi plums contain Vitamin A, B1 and B2, Potassium, Manganese and Citric Acid. They have good fibre and antioxidant properties.

I had not been to a Japanese restaurant for a while and had forgotten how delicious and healthy their cuisine tastes. I can highly recommend Nana’s Japanese restaurant, the tasting lunch I tried was exceptional, as was the friendly welcome and help I received in trying the tastes of Umeboshi plums.

Getting variety in our diets enables us to ensure we are providing the body with all the nourishment it needs to be healthy so why not try some Japanese food either by visiting a restaurant or experimenting with a new recipe at home?

Live with joy and health 💚
Elizabeth Beetham