Dr. Shirin Hooshmand and Dr. Mark Kern received additional funding from the California Dried Plum Board to extend their intervention trial begun in 2016, which examines the effects of prune consumption on bone metabolism among older adult men. Their previous research has shown prunes are effective in preventing bone loss in post-menopausal women. Studies of older male rodents have produced positive results; thus, Drs. Hooshmand and Kern hypothesize prune consumption will improve bone health in older adult men. In this research, men are consuming 100 grams (about 9-10 prunes) per day for one year. Preliminary results from the trial have been positive which resulted in additional funding for this research. This is the first study to address the possible effects of prune consumption on bone health in older adult men.
