Bone health may not be on the cards as your no.1 health concern right now, but we say better to prevent than correct! Our skeleton gives the body its shape, allows movement, makes blood cells, provides protection for organs and stores minerals and just like everything else in your body it needs certain vitamins and minerals to make sure its working at its best and protect it from chronic diseases such as osteoporosis.
Characterized by low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue, osteoporosis is a disease affecting millions of people around the globe. Bones lose their strength and are more likely to break after a minor fall. Fractures provoked by osteoporosis may happen in different parts of the human body, but wrists, hips, and spine are especially subject to major risk. However, adding dried fruits into your daily routine as part of a balanced diet may help prevent osteoporosis.
Research conducted with dried plums indicates that they have a role in supporting bone health.
Although osteoporosis not only affects women, they are more susceptible to suffering from this disease because bone loss is accelerated after menopause, due to hormonal changes that affect bone density. A study from Florida State University, published in the British Journal of Nutrition, proved the effect of prunes in reversing bone loss. A group of postmenopausal women were given 100 grams of prunes per day and were compared to a second group consuming 100 grams of dried apples. Results showed that, after 12 months, the group following the prunes-enriched diet significantly increased bone mineral density in the ulna (one of two long bones in the forearm) and spine, in comparison with the group that ate dried apples. According to the authors of the study, this was due in part to the ability of prunes to suppress the breakdown of bone, which tends to exceed the rate of new bone growth as people age.
As well as this, dried fruits are also a good source of nutrients that are considered to influence bone health: calcium, magnesium and, vitamin K.
So what are you waiting for, add dried fruit into your diet today!
*If you are concerned about osteoporosis, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized guidance and recommendations. They can help you create a dietary plan that supports your bone health based on your individual needs and circumstances.
