Prune juice is commonly extolled for its laxative quality, a well-known home remedy for constipation that has been used for years and has even become something of a stigma for older generations. Prune juice contains sorbitol, a sugar which is unable to be digested by the body and so causes a natural laxative effect. However, there are many other benefits of prune juice which are somewhat lesser known but very important.
One of the several benefits of prune juice is its high antioxidant content, substances which can aid in preventing the oxidation of free radicals which have a detrimental effect on skin and brain cells. Prune juice contains a high concentration of phenols and Vitamin A, or beta-carotene, both of which protect cells from free radical damage. In fact, prunes and prune juice contain more antioxidants that blueberries, the fruit that is commonly recognized as the universal standard for antioxidants. Another benefit of prune juice is its high potassium content, a nutrient which helps regulate the balance of essential minerals in the body and has been linked to a lower risk of stroke and high blood pressure by some dieticians. According to the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), a mere 8 ounces of prune juice contains 13% of the recommended daily intake of potassium. A third benefit of prune juice is its high fiber content, a nutrient which has been linked to weight loss and a decreased risk of diabetes. Fiber stabilizes the body’s blood sugar levels, slowing the digestion of glucose and thereby preventing insulin production. Fiber also aids in weight loss, as it typically produces a feeling of satiation and helps to prevent overeating, one of the most common causes of weight gain. Although prune juice will always be known for its laxative properties, there are many benefits of prune juice which make it an important part of any diet.