Monday, January 22, 2007

New Research Indicates Prunes May Help Fight Against Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, one of the leading health concerns for women, may now have a “fruitful” opponent. Research by Bahram H. Arjmandi of Florida State University aims to further support evidence that prunes may restore bone loss.

Previous research by Arjmandi found that prunes both prevented and reversed bone loss in animal models of osteoporosis. Arjmandi plans to continue his investigation of the prune’s role in preventing human osteoporosis in a new 12 month study. His unique approach will divide female particpants into two groups, one consuming prunes and the other dried apples. Both groups will supplement with 500 milligrams of calcium and 200 units of Vitamin D daily. The research is sponsored by the United States Department of Agriculture.

Osteoporosis currently affects 10 million Americans, with an additional 34 million at risk. Women, in particular, are at risk for fractures caused by osteoporosis after menopause, a condition that can onset rapidly.
The positive effect from prunes is good news for consumers who prefer natural remedies to drug therapy. Prunes, packed with nutrients including potassium, fiber, antioxidants, vitamin A, iron and Vitamin B, offer a delicious and inexpensive way to promote healthy bones and overall wellness.

Sunsweet Growers, Inc. is making it increasingly easy for consumers to enjoy prunes. New Ones® from Sunsweet individually wrapped prunes provide a healthy and convenient snack to take anywhere. Sunsweet prunes, made from the highest quality fruit, are available at grocery stores and mass merchandisers nationwide in produce or baking aisles.
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Headquartered in Yuba City, CA, Sunsweet Growers, Inc. is one of the world's largest handlers of dried fruits including prunes, apricots, cranberries and raisins. A grower-owned marketing cooperative, Sunsweet provides two-thirds of the world’s prunes. The Sunsweet brand is widely recognized as representing products that promote a healthy lifestyle for today’s consumer.

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