Prunes may help prevent bone loss

As the demographic shift to an older population continues, a growing number of men and women will be diagnosed with osteoporosis and a search for potential non-pharmacological alternative therapies is increasing. In addition to existing drug therapies, certain lifestyle and nutritional factors are known to reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

Prunes are high in vitamin K and are a good source of fiber and copper. In addition, prunes are unique in their combination and overall content of polyphenolsii.

Research in prunes has increased beginning with studies of their potential in restoring bone and preventing bone loss in animal models of osteoporosis 3,4. Animal studies strongly suggest that commonly consumed antioxidant-rich fruits have a pronounced effect on bone health.

According to a randomized controlled trial published last year, prune (dried plums) consumption may prevent the loss of total body BMD in older osteopenic postmenopausal women. Forty-eight osteopenic (where bone mineral density is lower than normal but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis) women (65-79 years old) were randomly assigned into one of three treatment groups for six months: 50 g of prunes, 100 g of prunes or a control group.

Total body, hip, and lumbar bone mineral density were evaluated at baseline and six months after using DEXA. In addition, several markers of bone metabolism were determined during the trial. Data revealed that both doses of prunes were able to prevent the loss of total body bone mineral density when compared to the control group.

Barbara Niemans
International Nut&DriedFruit
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