Most people know that they should get adequate levels of calcium every day in order to maintain strong bones, but researchers at Florida State University have conducted a study which suggests that prunes may also contribute to higher bone density.In a year-long trial, the scientists instructed 55 of the participants to eat 100 grams of dried plums each day and 45 volunteers to consume the same amount of dried apples. All volunteers were female and took 500-milligram calcium supplements and 400 international units of vitamin D.
At the end of the study, researchers said that the women who ate prunes daily had significantly higher bone mineral density than their counterparts who ate apples. The scientists noted that this may be due to the fruit's ability to prevent resorption, or bone loss.
Authors of the study noted that their findings may have relevance to older women and men, especially those who are at risk of osteoporosis.
"In the first five to seven postmenopausal years, women are at risk of losing bone at a rate of 3 [percent] to 5 percent per year," said lead author Bahram Arjmandi. "However, osteoporosis is not exclusive to women and, indeed, around the age of 65, men start losing bone with the same rapidity as women."
Easy Health Options Staff– August 29, 2011
