Why It Is Useful To Eat Prunes

Plums are rich in antioxidants, which are extremely important for human health. They have been used for centuries to improve health, and are even considered to be one of the first cultivated fruits in history. This cannot be accidental. We will look at the nutritional value of prunes, as well as the health benefits for the body from their consumption.

Nutritional value of prunes per 100 grams of product:

• water - 87 grams;
• calories - 46 kcal.;
• protein - 0.70 grams;
• fat - 0.28 grams;
• carbohydrates - 11.42 grams, of which 1.4 grams of fiber and 9.92 grams of sugars;
• vitamin C - 9.5 milligrams;
• potassium - 157 milligrams;
• phosphorus - 16 milligrams;

They also contain folate, vitamin E, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc and others.

What are the benefits of eating prunes

Among the main benefits of prunes are their antioxidant properties. Fruits contain vitamin C, phytonutrients such as lutein, cryptoxanthin, zaexin and chlorogenic acid. High oxidative foods help prevent cell damage.

Consumption of products with large amounts of antioxidants has been associated with slower aging, lower risk of cancer, beautiful skin and longer life.

Plums are a good source of dietary fiber and help regulate the digestive system. Prunes are more effective in constipation than fresh ones. But in the summer months it does not hurt to eat fresh plums to deal with the problem. The reason for their good effect on the digestive system is the presence of soluble and insoluble fiber.

The soluble firms found in the fruit itself break down as a "glue" that captures fats, sugars and bacteria and helps the body remove them. They break down carbohydrates and lower blood sugar levels, bad cholesterol and promote heart health.

Insoluble fiber in the plum peel passes undigested through the digestive tract, thus cleansing the intestines and mucous membranes, which is of great benefit to intestinal health.

Anti-inflammatory properties help prevent high cholesterol, diabetes and heart disease.

Vitamin K, present in plums, is good for the heart - it prevents calcification of the arteries (a condition in which calcium deposits accumulate in the arteries, as a result of which they harden and lose their elasticity). The element extracts calcium from the arteries and prevents the formation of dangerous plaque.

Some studies point to vitamin K as a nutrient to reduce inflammation. Consumption of foods high in vitamin is essential for the body. It helps prevent high blood pressure and reduces the risk of heart damage.

The phytonutrients in prunes are one of the main benefits of the fruit. They help reduce inflammation in neurological areas and improve brain function. Phytonutrients help preserve memory, which is a good prevention against dementia and Alzheimer's.

Prunes contain vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system, weakened by stress. Given the fact that nowadays stress is a daily occurrence, we should not neglect the intake of the vitamin.

Zinc (which is also found in plums) in combination with vitamin C helps with respiratory health.

Plums have a low glycemic index, although they are a fruit. Their extract lowers blood triglycerides and blood sugar levels.

To the benefits of plums we add the presence of flavonoids, which protect the body from insulin resistance, increasing the sensitivity of cells to insulin.

Fiber is also a natural remedy for diabetes as it aids metabolism and digestion.

Contraindications to the consumption of prunes

Prunes contain oxalates, which can cause kidney stones. Therefore, people who are prone to their formation, it is good to avoid the fruit or at least not to overdo it. Always watch for a reaction after taking them.

It is also thought that in some people these compounds interfere with the absorption of calcium, which increases the levels of calcium in the kidneys because it is not absorbed by the cells. This leads to an even higher risk of kidney and bladder stones.