Prunes are a neglected superfood!

In my opinion 😀

As I was wondering what to write for this week’s [TT] newsletter, the answer came to me – in a plate of prunes!

It’s time to give this humble snack a spotlight 🙂

Here’s why.

My memory of prunes from childhood, was that they were rather uninteresting, and something people ate for a mild laxative effect.

Turns out this humble dried fruit has many benefits – including bone health, which was why I started eating them recently.

6 pieces daily, or 50g to be exact, have been shown to improve bone health and boost bone mineral density* – a useful tip for women to prevent osteoporosis.

Now, what does this have to do with brain health, you may wonder?

📍3 ways Prunes can Boost Your Brain Health

🌟1️⃣ Antioxidants and Anthocyanins

Prunes are rich in antioxidants, particularly polyphenols, which can help combat oxidative stress in the brain.

Prunes also contain anthocyanins which give it is dark colour – these plant pigments are particularly beneficial for brain health.

🌟2️⃣ Gut-Brain Axis

The fibre and polyphenols in prunes acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria.

A healthy gut is linked to improved cognitive function and mood regulation through the gut-brain axis.

🌟3️⃣ Low glycemic index for stable energy

Despite their sweet taste, pitted prunes have a surprisingly low glycemic index (GI).

This means they cause a slow steady energy release, preventing blood sugar swings.

This is beneficial for brain function, as it helps maintain consistent glucose levels in the blood, providing a stable energy source for your neurons.

By choosing low-GI foods like prunes, you’re helping to maintain insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation, both of which are important for long-term brain health – more about Glycemic Index in my upcoming book Sweet Spot for Brain Health, out next month!

📍Question for you today:

Would you be tempted to have some prunes this week? 🙂

I’d love to hear your creative ideas for enjoying this nutritious snack!

Wishing you a brain-healthy day,

Dr Sui Wong

PS – yes, a bit random this one 😀 – let me know if you found it interesting/ helpful!🙂

PPS – as my dentist friend will say, remember to maintain good dental care after eating sticky foods like prunes! I suspect the data about bone health will benefit teeth too…