Dried Plums May Protect Against Heart Disease

SACRAMENTO, Calif—Dried plums may slow the development of atherosclerosis, according to a study published in the British Journal of Nutrition.
The study appears to be the first examining the effect of a fruit, in this case dried plums, on this type of disease. “This study breaks new ground by showing a significant reduction in the development of a major inflammatory disease,” said lead researcher Dan Gallaher, Ph.D. “It also strengthens the notion of eating fruit, in particular dried plums, as a preventive measure against heart disease.”
Dried plums, often touted for their digestive health benefits, are emerging as a heart-healthy addition to any diet. Previous studies show that dried plums reduce LDL cholesterol in humans and that the fiber pectin found in dried plums reduces cholesterol in animals. The versatile dried fruit has many nutrients, including potassium, magnesium and boron, as well as a high antioxidant score, giving dried plums numerous health benefits from helping maintain desirable blood sugar levels to possibly reducing skin wrinkles.