The impact of diet on our health is something we should not take lightly. Above all, as we add years. With menopause, the woman’s body goes through various changes with effects that should be counteracted. The main consequence of this vital stage is a decrease in estrogen levels.
In addition, the menopause slows down the metabolism, being more prone to the accumulation of fat and the loss of muscle. They also increase cholesterol levels, the accumulation of visceral fat, slower bowel function, and a weakening of the bones that often leads to osteoporosis, with increased risk of injury and fractures.
Following a series of healthy habits is essential to keep us in top shape. Such as exercising, taking care of our sleep routine and following a balanced diet. Within this, there are some foods that are especially beneficial for their properties. Among them, you should know that prunes are of great help for women over 50 years of age.
A study published in the journal Food
The scientific study included the participation of 143 postmenopausal women, aged between 55 and 75 years. These were divided into three groups, some that did not consume prunes, others that consumed 50 grams of prunes per day and another 100 grams per day for a year. The conclusion was that those who consumed between 50 and 100 grams of prunes per day saw a noticeable improvement in their microbiomes.
According to another study published in the journal Advances in Nutrition, prunes may mitigate bone loss in preclinical models of osteoporosis and in osteopenic postmenopausal women (ie, those with lower-than-usual bone mineral density). This article reviewed numerous preclinical studies that demonstrated that dietary supplementation with prunes conferred osteoprotective effects in both preventing and reversing bone density loss.
In addition, prunes have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, thanks to their high polyphenol content. All in all, they are postulated as excellent allies in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress associated with this loss of bone mineral density and weakening of the bones.
