Scientists Discover New Bone-Boosting Benefits of Prunes

Scientists Discover New Bone-Boosting Benefits of Prunes
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Prunes may be a surprising superfruit for bone health, especially in postmenopausal women, SciTech Daily reported. A recent Penn State study found that eating four to six prunes daily helps preserve bone density and strength, reducing fracture risk. Using advanced 3D imaging, researchers showed prune eaters maintained bone quality in key weight-bearing areas, unlike those who didn’t consume prunes.

Bone remodeling slows with age, leading to osteoporosis, which affects over 10 million Americans, mostly women. Postmenopausal estrogen decline accelerates bone loss, making prunes a promising natural alternative to medication. Prunes contain polyphenols that may reduce inflammation linked to bone degradation.

The 12-month randomized trial with 235 women used pQCT scans to assess bone structure and strength. Results showed that prune consumers maintained bone mass and strength, particularly in cortical bone of the tibia. The lower dose of four to six prunes daily was more sustainable than higher amounts.

This study builds on previous research showing prunes’ benefits for bone mass and gut health, with hopes for further investigation into their protective effects against osteoporosis.