Health benefits of prunes

Prunes as Warehouse of Minerals and Vitamins

Prunes are rich in potassium, a mineral that is needed for maintaining acid-base balance and which absence in the body leads to tiredness. They are also very rich in vitamins, and have low energy value.

Prunes have more minerals, vitamins and phytochemicals than plumes, and they are especially rich in antioxidants. 100 g of prunes provides daily need of protective antioxidants, which makes prunes healthier than blueberries, broccoli and Brussels sprouts. Prunes are real little treasury of potassium, fiber and vitamins, where small amounts of magnesium and iron also can be found. Prunes provide better use of iron in the body which is associated with abundance of vitamin C in this dried fruit.

Prunes and Digestion

Prunes also contain high level of pectin - dietary soluble fibers that grow in the stomach and intestines and thus promote digestion, collecting toxic substances in the body and their excretion. Therefore, increased prunes intake is recommended for people who want to improve their diet.

Prunes are the best known as being a laxative. It is not exactly known which component is responsible for it. However, they include sorbitol, a natural sugar that has laxative effect in many people. Excessive amounts of prunes can cause temporary gas and stomach cramps.

Prunes Against Various Diseases

Prunes improve appetite, help in the fight against high cholesterol, kidney and liver disease and the occurrence of gout.

When they are consumed regularly, prunes are excellent in the prevention of cancer, rejuvenating and regenerating the body and preventing the appearance of wrinkles. Also, they are excellent for weight loss, because they bind fat from foods stored in the body and discharge it through the intestines.

Because of its composition, prunes are useful in the fight against cancer.

Also, regular consumption of prunes reduces the possibility of developing a heart attack. They protect the heart by lowering cholesterol and preventing oxidation of LDL cholesterol.

10 to 12 prunes per day prevent bone loss caused by the decline in estrogen level, supplying the body with boron - mineral that helps the absorption of calcium.

Prunes as a Cure

One of the oldest Chinese remedy called ubai is made of very dry (smoked) plum. This remedy relieves symptoms of nausea, fever and cough.

Ladies who are concerned about their appearance and health should know that prunes destroy free radicals in the blood, providing more beautiful, firmer and younger look of the skin.