If you're looking for a healthy and flavorful snack, 2 1/2 oz. prunes without Vitamin C and strained are a great option. With only 71 calories per serving, they're a low-calorie way to keep cravings at bay.

Not only are they delicious, but prunes also have a variety of health benefits. They're a great source of vitamins and minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and vitamin K. Additionally, they're high in fiber, which can help regulate digestion and keep you feeling fuller for longer periods of time.

Read on to learn more about the many benefits of prunes and how they can be incorporated into your diet.

What are Prunes?

Prunes are dried plums that have been shriveled through a drying process. The process typically involves dehydrating ripe plums in the sun or in a commercial dehydrator until most of the moisture has been removed. Prunes have been used as a natural remedy for centuries to help with digestive issues and other ailments. They have a sweet, rich flavor and are a versatile ingredient in many different recipes.

Health Benefits of Prunes

Prunes offer a variety of health benefits that make them a great addition to any diet. Here are just a few of the many benefits that prunes have to offer:

Weight Management

Prunes can be a great aid in weight management. They're low in calories and high in fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied longer. Additionally, the fiber in prunes can help regulate digestion and keep you from overeating.

Bone Density

Prunes are a great source of vitamin K, which can help strengthen bones and improve bone density. Additionally, prunes contain several other minerals that are important for bone health, including potassium and magnesium.

Digestive Health

The high fiber content in prunes can help regulate digestion and prevent constipation. Additionally, prunes contain sorbitol, which is a natural laxative that can help relieve constipation and other digestive issues.

Antioxidants

Prunes are a great source of antioxidants, which can help protect against free-radical damage and reduce your risk of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Additionally, prunes contain polyphenols, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.

Good for Heart

Prunes can also be beneficial for heart health. They're low in sodium and high in potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and reduce your risk of heart disease. Additionally, the fiber in prunes can help reduce cholesterol levels, which can also help improve heart health.

Contains Fibre

As mentioned earlier, prunes are an excellent source of fiber. In addition to improving digestion and aiding in weight management, fiber can also help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce your risk of diabetes.

May help in preventing Cancer

Prunes contain several compounds that have been shown to have anti-cancer properties. For example, prunes contain chlorogenic acid, which has been associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer. Additionally, prunes contain phenolic compounds, which have been shown to have anti-tumor properties.

Easy to Add to Your Diet

One of the great things about prunes is that they're very easy to incorporate into your diet. They can be eaten as a snack on their own or added to a variety of recipes. For example, prunes can be added to oatmeal or yogurt for a nutritious breakfast, or they can be used as a natural sweetener in baking recipes.

Can be eaten in Different Ways

Prunes can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. They can be eaten on their own as a snack, or they can be added to dishes such as salads, oatmeal, and yogurt. Additionally, prunes can be used as a natural sweetener in baking recipes, such as muffins and scones.