Prunes for bones: Protect yourself from osteoporosis, arthritis with this superfood
Bones are responsible for protecting our major organs from injury. A person with strong bones feels more energised all day long. Hence, maintaining strong bones is crucial for our overall health. Experts say that prunes aka dried plums can help keep your bones in shape! Dr Rakesh Nair, consultant knee replacement surgeon, explains the benefits of prunes and how they can help protect bones.
How can prunes help with bone loss?
Anyone, at any age, can develop osteoporosis, a disorder in which bones become brittle. It is four times more prevalent in women over 50, than it is in men. More than 200 million women globally suffer from the condition, which results in over nine million fractures annually.
One of the latest studies on the fruit, published this year in the journal Advances in Nutrition, demonstrated through that eating 10 prunes every day for one year improved bone density in the forearm, lower spine and knees, and helped protect bones by slowing or reversing bone issues.
Dr Nair says, “Arthritis and osteoporosis are two of the most common health problems. People having these conditions suffer from symptoms such as bone pain, stiffness, swelling, inflammation, decreased range of motion, lower back pain, and bone loss. To deal with these conditions and prevent such issues you need to make sure to include prunes in your diet.”
Benefits of prunes
Prunes include polyphenol compounds, which work as antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and reconstruct the bone. They are also jam-packed with potassium, magnesium, copper and vitamin K, all of which are crucial for maintaining strong bones.
OTHER BENEFITS OF EATING PRUNES:
It can prevent early signs and symptoms of ageing.
It doesn’t raise your blood sugar levels.
A high amount of fibre present in it helps deal with gut issues. Nutrients such as vitamins B and C in prunes can help control hairfall. Prunes can keep cholesterol levels in check and good for your heart as well.