Prunes are one of the seasonal fruits that have not only a sweet taste, but also many health benefits. They contain a variety of vitamins - A, C (ascorbic acid), folate and vitamin K (phylloquinone), B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B-6 and vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) and minerals such as potassium , fluoride, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, calcium and zinc . They supply a large amount of dietary fiber to the body and offer it much less calories and carbohydrates.
What are the benefits of eating prunes?
Fruits contain phytonutrients such as lutein, cryptoxanthin, zeaxanthin, neochlorogenic and chlorogenic acid. These components have strong antioxidant properties that help prevent free radical damage. The phenols present in plums also provide a protective effect on the natural fats in neurons and cell membranes, protecting them from any damage caused by oxidative stress.
Studies show that eating prunes helps fight the metabolic syndrome due to the presence of bioactive compounds in them. Flavonoids and phenolic components, such as anthocyanins, chlorogenic acids, quercetin and catechins, which are found in fruits, reduce obesity and have anti-inflammatory effects. Increased consumption of plums helps people with high cholesterol, diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Plums have an antihyperglycemic effect, so they are suitable for diabetics. Studies show that consuming extracts of seasonal fruit helps reduce blood glucose and triglyceride levels. The flavonoids in plums regulate insulin.
Eating prunes helps maintain bone health . They have anabolic and antiresorption properties. Flavonoids, for example, suppress the deterioration of bone tissue and prevent diseases such as osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Polyphenols, together with the potassium content in prunes, maintain bone density, prevent bone loss.
Flavonoids also improve cognitive health , which deteriorates with age. Phytonutrients reduce inflammation in neurological areas, help memory and concentration. That is why fresh prune juice is recommended for Alzheimer's and Parkinson 's patients .
Vitamin B-6, which is contained in prunes, helps the normal transmission of nerve signals and the smooth functioning of the nervous system. It also stimulates the production of hormones that affect mood.
Due to the high content of vitamin C, plums strengthen the body's resistance to various infections and inflammations.