A Fruit Worth Noticing
Throughout adulthood, our bones are continually being broken down and rebuilt. As we move through midlife and beyond, supporting the balance between these processes becomes increasingly important.
Research in menopausal women has found that regular consumption of dried plums may help support bone mineral density and influence markers of bone turnover. Part of the interest in prunes comes from their polyphenols and other plant compounds, which may help influence oxidative stress and the processes involved in bone remodeling.
One randomized controlled trial found that women who consumed dried plums daily for 12 months experienced favorable changes in bone mineral density compared with the control group. Other research has continued to explore how different amounts of prunes may influence bone health.
Prunes, the Gut, and the Bones
We often hear about the gut:brain connection, but there is also a gut:bone connection. Prunes provide fiber and polyphenols that interact with our gut microbiota, and researchers are exploring how these interactions may influence processes related to bone health. It is a beautiful reminder that our bones do not exist in isolation. They are part of a much larger conversation happening throughout the body and reinforces that everything in our body is interconnected.
From Plum to Prune
Fresh plums are wonderful when they are in season. They are delicious on their own or sliced over yogurt or oatmeal, added to a salad, or paired with nuts and seeds.
When the season passes, prunes offer another way to enjoy this fruit throughout the year. If prunes work for you (because we know that no food works for everyone!), an idea could be adding a few to a smoothie, chopping them into porridge or muesli, pairing them with nuts or cheese, or simply enjoying them on their own. Their natural sweetness can also make them a lovely addition to baked goods or homemade energy bites.
More reading: https://truemedicine.com.au/tips/osteoporosis-not-just-a-lack-of-calcium/
https://truemedicine.com.au/vitality/how-acidity-affects-your-health/
Source: www.deannaminich.com