Prunes

Prunes' soluble fiber helps normalize blood sugar levels by slowing the rate at which food leaves the stomach and by delaying the absorption of glucose (the form in which sugar is transported in the blood) following a meal. Soluble fiber also increases insulin sensitivity and can therefore play a helpful role in the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes. And, prunes' soluble fiber promotes a sense of satisfied fullness after a meal by slowing the rate at which food leaves the stomach, so prunes can also help prevent overeating and weight gain.

All prunes are plums, but not every plum is choicest to be a prune. They are good source of potassium the mineral for maintaining normal blood pressure, heart function & reduced risks of a stroke. It also promotes bone health & slows down muscular degeneration. Prunes also aid in normalizing blood sugar levels, provide intestinal protection & lower cholesterol. Remember to keep prunes fresh by storing them in airtight containers in a cool, dry & dark place.

Health Benefits of Prunes 
Prunes' Fiber for Regularity, Lower Cholesterol, & Intestinal Protection
Prunes are well known for their ability to prevent constipation. In addition to providing bulk and decreasing the transit time of fecal matter, thus decreasing the risk of colon cancer and hemorrhoids, prunes' insoluble fiber also provides food for the "friendly" bacteria in the large intestine. When these helpful bacteria ferment prunes' insoluble fiber, they produce a short-chain fatty acid called butyric acid, which serves as the primary fuel for the cells of the large intestine and helps maintain a healthy colon. These helpful bacteria also create two other short-chain fatty acids, propionic and acetic acid, which are used as fuel by the cells of the liver and muscles.

Health Benefits
Prunes are absolutely bursting with nutrients and goodness.

• Prunes are the richest food source of protective antioxidants providing a massive boost to natural resistance and vitality. Antioxidants may help lower the risk of heart and lung diseases, some cancers, cataract formation and the effects of aging.
• Prunes have vitamin A, important for healthy eyes and skin, vision, growth, reproduction and the immune system.
• They contain potassium, necessary for nerve impulses and muscle contractions.
• Prunes contain magnesium, vital to many basic metabolic functions.
• Prunes also contain copper that helps the body metabolize and use carbohydrates, thus providing it with energy.
• Prunes provide both soluble and insoluble dietary fibre. About 60 per cent of the dietary fibre in Prunes is pectin, a soluble fibre linked to lowering blood cholesterol levels. Soluble fibre helps reduce blood cholesterol levels thereby reducing the risk of heart disease. Insoluble fibre works mainly in the large intestine, acting like a laxative.
• According to research, prunes may also boost skeletal health. Prunes may contribute to the prevention of bone loss in post-menopausal women. The study showed that women who ate 12 prunes daily for three months had significant increases in serum markers of bone formation, and serum BSAP (bone-specific alkaline phosphatase) activity.