Prunes help to strengthen bones and counteract osteoporosis! Here is another proof that to feel good we don't always have to make sacrifices, but "sweet" remedies can come to our aid. This is what emerges from a very recent scientific research published a few days ago in the journal Nutrients thanks to the work of an American team from Florida State University (George et al, Nutrients, Jan 2022).
The causes of osteoporosis
It is estimated that osteoporosis and reduced bone density affect 54% of the adult population over 50 in the United States. The underlying cause of osteoporosis is chronic inflammation, which alters bone remodeling and leads to bone loss. Over time, the continued loss of bone mass leads to a deterioration in quality of life, with greater difficulty in performing tasks and an increased risk of falls and fractures. Previous studies have already shown that prunes are able to counteract the loss of bone density in animals. Subsequently, research has been able to show this effect even in menopausal women. It is believed that this bone-saving ability of prunes is due to their content in polyphenols, which counteract oxidative stress, which in turn is the cause of the perpetuation of inflammation. Not only that, prunes also bring vitamin K and precious mineral salts, such as magnesium, potassium and boron, all important substances for the well-being of the bones. However, to date, there was a lack of studies on the efficacy of dried plums on the general population.
Prunes improve bone health
To shed light on this aspect, the researchers recruited 35 men between the ages of 55 and 80, all in good health and with a reduction in bone density. The volunteers were divided into three groups. The first group was asked to take 100 grams of prunes per day for three months. The second group was asked to take 50 grams of prunes per day for three months, the third group was instead used as a control. Well, what emerged is that prunes, while not decreasing the values of chronic inflammation, in fact the time devoted to the experiment was really too limited to see effects on this parameter, were able instead to improve the markers of bone health. In particular, in both groups that had taken prunes were decreased osteoclacin values, which when elevated, indicate osteoporosis.
