Prunes May Provide Bone Health Benefits

Prunes are dried plums. They are high in fiber and potassium and have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. A recent study has found that prunes may provide bone health benefits.

Postmenopausal women with a low bone mineral density score participated in the study. One-third consumed approximately six prunes daily, one-third consumed approximately 12 prunes daily, and one-third consumed no prunes for 12 months. The researchers took blood samples at baseline and at the end of the study period to measure inflammatory markers.

Participants in both prune groups had significant reductions in inflammatory markers at the end of the study period compared to the group that did not consume prunes. High levels of inflammation and oxidative stress, particularly in bone cells called osteoclasts, previously have been found to be associated with lower bone mineral density readings.

The study was conducted by researchers from Pennsylvania State University. It was presented at the annual meeting of the American Psychological Society the week of April 2, 2022.

A previous study found that collagen peptides may provide bone health benefits.