Are dried plums good for you?

Prunes, also known as dried plums, are the fruit of a special type of plum tree. You might have heard that prunes can help with constipation and other digestive problems, but there are many other health benefits to eating prunes regularly. Prunes offer a variety of nutrients that can boost your overall health and keep your body strong. Here’s what you need to know about the purported benefits of prune consumption and how they stack up:

Dried plums, also called prunes, have a long history of being used medicinally.

Dried plums, also called prunes, have a long history of being used medicinally.

The Chinese have been using dried plums as medicine for more than 2,000 years. They were used to treat digestive problems such as constipation and diarrhea and inflammation as well as fever and pain. Today they are still used to treat constipation, diarrhea and digestive problems by helping your body get rid of toxins that build up in your digestive system.

Prunes help with digestion because they’re rich in fiber.

Dried plums are rich in fiber, which helps with digestion. Fiber is a carbohydrate that your body can’t digest on its own, so it passes through your gut undigested. As this happens, the fiber absorbs water from the contents of your intestine and makes them bulkier. This helps food move more quickly through your digestive system, which prevents constipation by speeding up elimination time and keeping waste matter soft enough for easy passage out of the body.

Dried plums also contain pectin–a type of soluble dietary fiber that binds with cholesterol to help prevent heart disease–and they’re great at lowering blood sugar levels because they’re high in mono-and polyunsaturated fats (which slow down digestion).

They’re also high in antioxidants and other nutrients.

Dried plums are also high in antioxidants, which can help to ward off heart disease and other health issues. Antioxidants protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals–unstable molecules that can cause cell mutation or death.

Antioxidants can help to prevent cataracts and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), two common eye diseases that often develop as we get older. They may also reduce the risk of glaucoma, another serious condition that affects the eyesight of millions of people worldwide every year.

Dried plums have been shown to help boost skin elasticity due to their high levels of vitamin C, so they’re perfect for fighting wrinkles! A 2014 study found that eating dried plums daily improved hydration levels among participants who were already receiving treatment for eczema or psoriasis (1). This same study reported that participants experienced fewer flare-ups after eating dried plums than before consuming them as well–evidence that supports claims made by traditional healers who prescribe this fruit regularly as part of their healing protocol

They may help lower blood pressure and heart disease risk.

Dried plums (aka prunes) are a good source of antioxidants, which have been shown to help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. Antioxidants can also protect against cancer, stroke and diabetes.

Researchers from the University of California at Davis found that people who ate dried plums daily for six weeks had lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels than those who didn’t eat them at all.

Dried plums are high in fiber, so they help you feel full longer while providing energy without adding calories or sugar–and they’re packed with vitamins A and K. But make sure you’re buying dried plums that haven’t been treated with sulfites (an additive used as a preservative).

Your body absorbs the nutrients better in dried plums than in fresh ones.

Dried plums are a great source of fiber. A single serving of dried plums contains about 2 grams of dietary fiber, which is about 10% of the average daily recommended intake for adults.

Dried plums also have more antioxidants than fresh ones do! Antioxidants are substances that help protect your body from damage caused by free radicals–unstable molecules produced when you’re exposed to sunlight, pollution, cigarette smoke and other sources of environmental damage. They’ve been shown to reduce inflammation and lower your risk for heart disease and cancer by slowing down or preventing cell damage at the molecular level. So if you want an antioxidant boost in your diet (and who doesn’t?), try adding some dried fruit into your day!

Dried fruits like prunes also contain high levels of vitamin A–a nutrient essential for healthy vision development in children as well as maintaining healthy skin tissue throughout life–alongside other important vitamins such as folate and vitamin C which help keep our bodies running smoothly on a cellular level.”

Dried plums are good for you, but eat them in moderation because they are still calorie-dense

• Dried plums are still calorie-dense. While prunes are a good source of fiber, they also contain sorbitol and fructose, which can cause digestive problems for some people.
• Eat dried plums in moderation. Because of their high sugar content (1/2 cup has 16 grams), it’s best to eat one or two prunes at a time as part of a healthy diet that includes plenty of fresh produce, whole grains, lean protein sources and healthy fats like nuts and seeds.*

Dried plums are a great snack and can be eaten raw or cooked. They’re also good in salads and desserts because they have a sweet flavor that goes well with other fruits. If you want to get even more benefits from these tasty little treats, try mixing them with other healthy foods like nuts or berries!

Frequently Asked Questions about Dried Plums:

1. Are dried plums good for your health?
   • Dried plums, also known as prunes, have several health benefits. They are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which can help improve digestion, support bone health, and promote a healthy immune system.
2. What nutrients are found in dried plums?
   • Dried plums are packed with essential nutrients, including dietary fiber, potassium, vitamin K, vitamin A, and antioxidants. These nutrients contribute to various aspects of overall health and well-being.
3. Can dried plums aid in digestion?
   • Yes, dried plums are known to promote healthy digestion. They contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, which can help regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation. Including them in your diet may improve digestive health.
4. Do dried plums have any benefits for bone health?
   • Dried plums are rich in essential nutrients like vitamin K, potassium, and magnesium, which contribute to bone health. Regular consumption of dried plums may help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
5. Can dried plums help with weight management?
   • Due to their high fiber content, dried plums can help promote a feeling of satiety and aid in weight management. Including them in a well-balanced diet may support healthy weight loss or maintenance.
6. Do dried plums have any impact on blood sugar levels?
   • Although dried plums contain natural sugars, they also have a low glycemic index, which means they have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels. However, individuals with diabetes should still consume dried plums in moderation and consider their overall carbohydrate intake.
7. Are there any precautions to consider when consuming dried plums?
   • While dried plums are generally safe for consumption, some individuals may be sensitive to high fiber intake or have specific medical conditions that require dietary restrictions. It is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized advice.
8. How should dried plums be stored to maintain their freshness?
   • To preserve the freshness of dried plums, they should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Refrigeration can further extend their shelf life. Avoid exposure to moisture or direct sunlight, as this can affect the quality.
9. Can dried plums be a part of a balanced diet?
   • Absolutely! Dried plums can be a nutritious addition to a well-balanced diet. They can be eaten on their own as a snack, added to smoothies, trail mixes, baked goods, or used as a natural sweetener in various recipes.
10. How many dried plums should be consumed daily for optimal health benefits?
    • The recommended daily intake of dried plums may vary depending on individual needs and dietary goals. As a general guideline, consuming around 5-6 dried plums a day can provide a good balance of nutrients and health benefits. However, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized advice.