All About Prunes
Prunes, or dried plums, may not seem like the most glamorous food to include in your diet. However, underneath their wrinkled exterior lies a wealth of health benefits that make prunes a nutritional powerhouse. From improving digestion to boosting bone health, prunes are a simple yet effective addition to a healthy dietary regime.
The Nutritional Profile of Prunes
For such a small fruit, prunes pack a lot of nutrition. A 1-ounce serving, or about four prunes, comes in at just under 100 calories but supplies your body with dietary fiber, Vitamin A, Vitamin K, and several essential minerals (source). High in antioxidants, prunes also boast phenolic compounds that contribute to their health-promoting properties.
Prunes for Digestive Health
One of the best-known benefits of prunes is their ability to maintain and enhance digestive health. The high fiber content keeps things moving along in the digestive tract, making prunes a popular remedy for constipation (source). Add to this the presence of sorbitol, a sugar alcohol with natural laxative properties, prunes are not to be underestimated as a natural solution for digestive ailments.
Prunes for Bone Health
Surprisingly, prunes may also help improve bone health. Studies have shown that they contain substances that seem to inhibit bone resorption, the process by which bone is broken down, thereby helping to keep bones strong (source). So if you’re looking for a diet-friendly way to protect your bones as you age, prunes might very well be it.
Prunes for Heart Health
Adding prunes to your diet could help improve your heart health, too. Their fiber, potassium, and antioxidant content can help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease (source). If heart health is a concern for you, consider adding prunes to your diet.
In conclusion, prunes are undeniably beneficial to overall health and well-being. Despite being underappreciated and often overlooked, these dried fruits are a convenient and versatile addition to a balanced diet. From keeping the digestive system running smoothly to contributing to strong, healthy bones, and even protecting the heart, prunes are proof that big benefits can come in small packages.
