Good news: You can add dried fruits to your diet bring about your desired variety while still working toward your weight loss goals! And the dried fruit of the day: prunes. Prunes, with their rich taste and chewy texture, are extremely nourishing. They are the dried version of the European plums and can even be called dried plums. While the fruit has an image problem in the U.S., this tasty fruit is actually fashionable in some parts of the world—and for good reason!
The Prune Study
Dried fruits are not usually recommended during weight loss. But a 2014 study by the University of Liverpool researchers say that prunes can be added as part of a healthy diet in weight loss. The participants of the study were 100 overweight and obese low fiber consumers. The study was carried out in a 12 week period. The participants were divided into two groups. One group ate prunes as part of a healthy diet and the other group was given some nice advice about healthy snacks. The results were amazing. The members of the group who ate prunes lost 2kg in weight and shed 2.5 cm off their waist. The people in the other group lost 1.5 kg and 1.7 cm off their waist. There were no side effects in people who ate prunes in the study.
Health Benefits of Prunes
Prunes have some amazing health benefits which you ought to know. So here we go.
Prunes have unique antioxidants, which prevent oxygen based damage to fats. Our cell membranes and brain cells are largely made up of fats. So this action of prunes is a huge health benefit.The soluble fiber in prunes slows down the rate at which food leaves the stomach and also delays absorption of glucose. This action helps to normalize blood sugar levels.The soluble fiber helps to prevent and treat type 2 diabetes.Fiber promotes a feeling of fullness and prevents overeating and weight gain.Prunes help prevent constipation and thus reduce the risk of colon cancer and hemorrhoids.The insoluble fiber acts as food for friendly bacteria in the large intestine and helps maintain a healthy colon.Prunes help to lower cholesterol levels and increase the absorption of iron.Prunes help to reduce breast cancer risk in women.
The verdict on prunes and your health and weight loss goals
Prunes are really excellent for your digestive health. It helps you to slim down and also has other ample health benefits. So don’t waste a minute more, rush and get yourself a jar of prunes—and see what it can do for your health, body and weight loss! Up next: Some People Swear By Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss—But Does It Really Help You Lose Weight?
Sources
University of Liverpool: Eating prunes can help weight lossClemson University Cooperative Study: FiberWebMD: Prunes: Are There Health Benefits?Appetite: Type of snack influences satiety responses in adult women
