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Prunes

Prunes · Prunus domestica

Fruits & Vegetables

Prunes

Prunus domestica

Dried plums with natural sweetness and useful fiber — prunes help keep digestion moving and are easy to add to breakfast or snacks.

Benefits

Supports regular digestion

their fiber and natural sorbitol help soften stools and keep them moving

Helps with occasional constipation

prunes draw water into the bowel and make stools easier to pass

Supports heart health

their fiber and potassium support healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels

Supports healthy bones

prunes provide minerals like potassium and boron that help maintain normal bone strength

They will see the photograph and what it helps with.

Why they work

Sorbitol

a natural sugar alcohol that draws water into the bowel

Fiber

adds bulk and helps food move through the digestive system

Potassium

a mineral that supports normal muscle and nerve function, including the muscles of the bowel

Polyphenols

natural plant compounds that help protect the fruit from damage

How to use it for the specific effect

For regular digestion

eat a few prunes with breakfast or as a snack, and drink water with them

For occasional constipation

start with a small amount and increase only if needed

In meals

chop them into porridge, yogurt, salads, stews, or baked dishes

For cooking

soak firm prunes in warm water before adding them to a recipe

Key active compounds

Sorbitol

the natural compound that helps soften stools

Dietary fiber

supports regular bowel movements

Potassium

an important mineral in the fruit

Polyphenols

protective plant compounds concentrated in the skin and flesh

Caution

Eating too many at once can cause gas or loose stools

start with two or three a day to let your digestion adjust

How we chose it to buy online

We check every product so you don't have to. A prunes only makes our list if:

  • Unsweetened prunes — the fruit should contain no added sugar or syrup
  • Soft but not wet — good prunes should be moist and easy to chew, without leaking liquid
  • No sulfites if preferred — check the label if you want prunes without added preservatives
  • Whole fruit rather than juice — whole prunes retain their fiber
  • Clear ingredient list — the label should name plums or prunes, with no unnecessary flavorings
  • Well-sealed packaging — protects the fruit from drying out and absorbing other smells

If no product meets these standards, we don't list one. No exceptions for affiliates.

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