Prunes Linked to Improved Bone Health in Older Women, Study Finds
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Dairy isn't the only food that's good for bone health. Prunes may also protect bone structure and strength in postmenopausal women; according to a new study led by Penn State researchers.
The findings, published in Osteoporosis International, suggested that daily prune consumption slows the progression of age-related bone loss and reduces the risk of fracture.
Bones are made of dynamic tissues that constantly remodel, with old bone being replaced by new bone. As we age, bone breakdown outpaces bone formation, leading to conditions like osteoporosis. Osteoporosis, affecting over 10 million people according to the CDC, is more common in women and older adults, particularly postmenopausal women. During menopause, declining estrogen levels accelerate bone loss.
While medications exist to treat osteoporosis, many women who need them do not take them. Prunes offer a promising alternative due to their bioactive compounds, like polyphenols, which may reduce inflammation and slow bone loss.
In the study, a 12-month randomized controlled trial was conducted with 235 postmenopausal women to assess the impact of daily prune consumption on bone quality. Participants were divided into three groups: no prunes, 50 grams (four to six prunes) daily, and 100 grams (10 to 12 prunes) daily. Every six months, their bone mass density, bone geometry, and bone strength were measured using peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT).
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