Healing Tip: Prunes for Reversing Bone Loss

Known mostly for their laxative effect, prunes (or dried plums as they are called these days) boast myriad health benefits. Rich in fiber, potassium, iron, antioxidants, and phytonutrients, they’re high on the list of healthful foods.

Recent animal studies have uncovered more good news: Prunes may reverse bone loss and promote bone formation.

In one study, female rats whose ovaries had been surgically removed were fed a diet supplemented with prunes, and marked restoration of bone mass occurred. The results were so profound that researchers at Florida State University began a year-long clinical trial with postmenopausal women.

Half of the women will add 9–10 prunes (100 g) to their daily diet, and the other half will consume an equivalent portion of dried apples. All of the women will take 500 mg of calcium and 200 IU of vitamin D a day, undergo quarterly blood and urine tests, and have their bone mineral density measured at the start and end of the study.

We won’t know the results for a while, but the way I see it, why wait? Start reaping the benefits of prunes today.

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