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Dried Plum Fruit Extract

Also known as: Dried plum, Prune, Dried plum fruit extract, Prunus domestica

Overview

Dried plum fruit extract is derived from dehydrated plums, primarily *Prunus domestica*. It is a rich source of polyphenols, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a valuable functional food ingredient and dietary supplement. Its primary uses include supporting cardiovascular health, bone health, and digestive function. Research indicates its significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The extract is characterized by its high antioxidant capacity, attributed to its phenolic compounds, and its beneficial fiber and sorbitol content. The evidence supporting its health benefits, particularly for lipid profile improvement and reduction of cardiovascular risk factors, is of good quality, stemming from multiple randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses.

Benefits

Dried plum fruit extract offers several evidence-based benefits. Its primary effect is the improvement of lipid profiles; meta-analyses consistently show significant reductions in total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c). For instance, one meta-analysis reported a weighted mean difference (WMD) in LDL reduction of −12.50 mg/dL (95% CI: −22.06, −2.94, p = .010), with benefits being more pronounced in unhealthy subjects and with supplementation lasting longer than 8 weeks. These LDL reductions, typically around 10–12 mg/dL, are clinically relevant for cardiovascular risk reduction. Secondary benefits include significant reductions in inflammatory markers such as interleukin-6 (p = .044) and tumor necrosis factor-α (p = .040), along with increased total antioxidant capacity (p = .046) and superoxide dismutase activity (p = .044–.027), as observed in a 6-month RCT in postmenopausal women consuming 50–100 g/day. This study also noted reductions in liver enzyme and muscle damage markers, suggesting potential hepatoprotective and muscle protective effects. Benefits are typically observed after 8 weeks to 6 months of daily consumption, with postmenopausal women and individuals with dyslipidemia showing particular responsiveness.

How it works

The beneficial effects of dried plum fruit extract are primarily mediated by its rich content of antioxidant polyphenols and dietary fiber. Polyphenols scavenge free radicals, thereby reducing oxidative stress throughout the body. The fiber content contributes to improved lipid metabolism and supports gut health. Anti-inflammatory effects are likely achieved through the downregulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6 and TNF-α, suggesting an interaction with NF-κB signaling pathways. The extract interacts with the cardiovascular system by modulating lipid metabolism and potentially improving endothelial function, and with the immune system by modulating inflammatory responses. It also appears to influence liver function by affecting enzyme activity. The polyphenols and fiber components have moderate bioavailability, with their metabolites exerting systemic effects.

Side effects

Dried plum fruit extract is generally considered safe, with no serious adverse effects reported in clinical trials. The most common side effects are mild gastrointestinal issues, such as bloating and gas, which are primarily attributed to its high fiber and sorbitol content. These effects are typically dose-dependent and can be mitigated by starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it. Uncommon or rare side effects are not well-documented in high-quality studies. No significant drug interactions have been reported, but caution is advised when combining it with other laxatives or sorbitol-containing products due to the potential for additive gastrointestinal effects. There are no established contraindications, but individuals with fructose intolerance or sorbitol sensitivity should exercise caution. The extract has been well tolerated in postmenopausal women, but data on other specific populations are limited.

Dosage

Based on clinical trials, the minimum effective dose of dried plum fruit extract for benefits such as lipid improvement and inflammation reduction is approximately 50 g daily. The optimal dosage range appears to be between 50–100 g per day, which has been shown to be both effective and safe. Doses exceeding 100 g per day may increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal side effects, such as bloating and gas, and the maximum safe dose is not clearly established. For consistent benefits, daily consumption is recommended, ideally at a consistent time. The extract can be consumed as whole dried plums or as standardized extracts that preserve the beneficial polyphenols and fiber content. Consuming the extract with water may aid digestion, and its fiber content is a key contributor to its effects. No specific cofactors are required, but a balanced diet is always recommended for overall health.

FAQs

Is dried plum extract effective for cholesterol?

Yes, research, including meta-analyses, indicates that dried plum extract can significantly reduce total cholesterol and LDL-c, particularly in individuals with dyslipidemia.

How long does it take to see benefits from dried plum extract?

Benefits typically become apparent after 8 weeks to 6 months of consistent daily intake, with some studies showing more pronounced effects after longer durations.

Are there any side effects associated with dried plum extract?

Mild gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating and gas are possible due to its fiber and sorbitol content, but it is generally well-tolerated.

Can dried plum extract replace cholesterol-lowering medications?

No, dried plum extract should not replace prescribed medications. It may complement existing treatments but is not a substitute for medical advice or prescribed drugs.

Is long-term use of dried plum extract safe?

Current data support its safety for at least 6 months of continuous use. Longer-term safety data are limited but no serious adverse effects have been reported.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9869099/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs found that dried plum supplementation significantly reduced total cholesterol and LDL-c, especially in unhealthy subjects and with supplementation longer than 8 weeks. Despite high heterogeneity, the study provides robust statistical evidence for lipid-lowering effects.
https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/10.1089/jmf.2020.0142 – This 6-month randomized controlled trial in postmenopausal women showed that daily consumption of 50–100 g dried plum significantly lowered total cholesterol, inflammatory markers (IL-6, TNF-α), and increased antioxidant enzymes. The study highlights the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits in a specific population.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/fsn3.4000 – This systematic review and meta-analysis confirmed a significant reduction in LDL cholesterol with dried plum supplementation, reporting a weighted mean difference of −12.50 mg/dL. It provides strong evidence for the lipid-modulating effects of dried plums in adults with lipid abnormalities.