By: Elna Botes van Schalkwyk
Health Benefits of Prunes:
- Prunes are popular as a remedy for constipation. The credit goes to the high fiber content of prunes.
- Prunes contain both soluble and insoluble fiber. The soluble fiber is beneficial in lowering cholesterol levels, as they attach to the bile acids and remove cholesterol through feces. Even the antioxidants in prunes can aid in lowering cholesterol. Insoluble fiber aids the beneficial bacteria, as it provides food for the later. This contributes to the health of the colon.
- Antioxidants in prunes help fight free radicals, thereby preventing a number of health problems, like, heart attacks, strokes, etc.
- High levels of potassium in prunes is also beneficial for cardiovascular health, as it plays a vital role in maintaining normal levels of blood pressure and heart rate. So, prunes are said to be useful in reducing high blood pressure. As it is rich in potassium, prunes are also good for bone health. It is also said to fight loss of calcium.
- Health benefits of eating prunes include its role in lowering high blood sugar levels. The soluble fiber in prunes delays the absorption of glucose into the blood. It is also said to cause insulin sensitivity, which in turn is good for the prevention of type 2 diabetes.
- According to some studies, prunes are said to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause. Even the problems related to bone health (like, osteoporosis), during menopause are said to be countered with prune intake.
- Some people use prunes as a remedy for acne control and such skin problems. It is also said that cellulite reduction is also possible with prune consumption. Even weight loss is linked with prune intake.
(Thanks to buzzle.com)
Ingredients:
150 ml red wine vinegar
50 ml Xylitol or Stevia
2,5 ml ground ginger
2,5 ml Himalayan salt
1 ml cayenne pepper
2,5 ml mustard seeds
0,6 ml ground allspice
350 g pitted prunes, halved
1 large red pepper, cut into 1-cm squares
1 large tomato, cut into 1-cm cubes
1 small onion (red, if available) cut into 1-cm cubes
2,5 ml organic vanilla powder
Method:
In a medium saucepan, combine the vinegar, xylitol, ginger, himalayan salt, cayenne pepper, mustard seeds and allspice. Bring to a boil over moderate heat. Stir in the prunes, pepper, tomato and onion. Return to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover and cook for 10 minutes. Uncover and cook for 5 minutes or until the prunes are tender and the liquid is reduced to a thick syrup. Stir in the vanilla. Serve warm, at room temperature or chilled.
Makes 875 millilitres.
Enjoy!
