Prune Juice: 6 Benefits & Uses

You may have heard your grandparents suggest prune juice for digestive problems. While it does work as a natural constipation remedy, that's not all it's good for. Prune juice benefits also include the ability to prevent heart disease, strengthen the bones, protect the liver and reduce oxidative stress in the body.

Prune Juice Benefits

1. Relives Constipation

Prune juice benefits include the ability to naturally relieve constipation. It works as a mild laxative to help get things moving. A 2008 study found that supplementing with prune products can help provide the body with energy, dietary fiber and water, while working to relieve constipation in adults. Prune juice benefits include both constipation relief and constipation prevention. Drinking the juice on a regular basis can help keep bowel movements regular and increase the healthy bacteria in the digestive system. (1)

2. May Help Prevent Colon Cancer

Research has shown that prune juice benefits may include the ability to stop the growth of colon cancer. According to a study published in the Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology, prune juice has significant effects on colon cancer cells. The study found that the juice was bale to completely stop the growth of a common colon cancer, suggesting that it may work as a natural cancer treatment. (2)

3. Prevents Heart Disease

Thanks to the powerful antioxidants it contains, prune juice benefits include the ability to prevent heart disease. Studies have shown that the antioxidants in prunes can help prevent and slow the progression of many disease, including coronary heart disease. A 2009 study found that adding prunes to your diet may help slow the spread of arteriosclerosis. The phenolic compounds in prunes help lower LDL cholesterol levels and unclog arteries to promote cardiovascular health. (3)

4. Reduces Oxidative Stress

Prune juice benefits include the ability to reduce oxidative stress. The powerful antioxidants in prunes help fight damage caused by free radicals. Prune juice benefits also include the ability to protect the eyes from disease, thanks to the carotenoids lutein and zeaxanthin. These antioxidants help reduce the risk of macular degeneration.

5. Protects Against Liver Disease

Prune juice benefits include protection from liver disease. The powerful antioxidants in prunes can help fight oxidative damage that can cause liver problems. Research has shown a link between prune juice and improved liver health. Studies suggest that drinking prune juice on a regular basis may aid in the body's detox process and reduce the risk of liver disease. (4)

6. Strengthens Bones

Prune juice benefits include the ability to naturally strengthen the bones. Prunes contain antioxidants that fight disease, boost immunity and help prevent bone loss. When studied for its effect on postmenopausal bone health, researchers found that prune juice was able to help prevent and even reverse bone loss, by increasing the antioxidant activity in the bones.