Benefits of Prune Juice Supported by Scientific Evidence:
Get the scoop on prune juice - the natural sweet drink with potential health perks beyond an upset tummy. Here's what you need to know about this zesty beverage.
What's the deal with prune juice, anyway?
Prunes are just dried plums, and most prune juice is extracted from the Prunus domesticus variety. To make prune juice, dried plums are boiled to create a liquid.
It can help you make that regular poo
Struggling to, uh, get things moving? A half cup of prune juice could break the logjam. It contains fiber, sorbitol (a type of sugar alcohol), and dihydrophenylisatin (a natural laxative), all working together to help keep your digestive tract on track.
Hemorrhoids, be gone!
By reducing constipation, lessening the chances of hemorrhoids - yep, that's a thing who suffers from swollen veins around the anus or rectum - becomes more unlikely. Ouch!
Heart health boost
High in potassium, prune juice might help lower high blood pressure - fantastic news for those at risk. Plus, a 2010 study indicates that people who drink prune juice or eat prunes daily showed lower blood pressure and a decreased risk of hypertension.
Cholesterol reduction
Prune juice may help lower the "bad" LDL cholesterol, preventing plaque build-up in arteries and helping keep your heart ticking happily. Research isn't completely clear on why this might happen, but antioxidants and soluble fiber might be part of the equation.
Iron-rich
Prune juice is full of iron, essential for red blood cell production and preventing anemia. A half cup has about 17% of the FDA's daily recommended value.
Bones be strong
Boron in prune juice can help build and maintain bones, potentially helping combat bone density loss from radiation. Multiple studies also suggest that prunes could help prevent bone density loss in postmenopausal women.
Support a healthy weight
With fiber content and a low glycemic index, prune juice can help make you feel full while keeping your blood sugar levels stable.
Inflammation fighting
Antioxidants in prune juice help reduce inflammation, protecting your cells from damage. They may even reduce the risk of certain cancers.
Vitamins galore
Prunes are packed with vitamins A, C, and E, as well as various B vitamins, including niacin and thiamin. They also contain minerals like potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
Liver benefits
Prune juice has traditionally been used to treat liver diseases like hepatitis and jaundice. Some studies suggest it may help reduce harmful chemicals in the blood that originate from liver health problems.
Potential colon cancer prevention
Preliminary studies indicate that prunes may help prevent colon cancer by reducing inflammation and preventing constipation.
Potential side effects
Prune juice can worsen symptoms of certain health conditions, cause digestive discomfort, lead to unwanted weight gain, and trigger allergic reactions in some people. Drink in moderation and consult a healthcare provider if concerns arise.
Prune juice, rich in antioxidants, could potentially lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by plaque build-up in arteries. Interestingly, prune juice may also contribute to better gut health, as its high fiber content aids in maintaining a healthy digestive tract. Furthermore, prune juice's iron-rich composition plays a significant role in supporting red blood cell production and preventing anemia.
