HEALTH AND FITNESS
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HOW PRUNES CAN FEED YOUR HEALTH AT 4 IMPORTANT STAGES OF LIFE Seeking more plant-based options for healthy aging? This approach is right on track with the 2020-2025 U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA) that advocate for greater fruit and vegetable consumption. One easy way to expand your plant-based options and incorporate the Mediterranean diet as advised by the DGA is by adding in California Prunes. They not only provide plenty of health benefits but can also be used in a variety of sweet and savory dishes. Registered dietitian and nutritionist, Leslie Bonci, MPH, RDN, CSSD, provides tips for adding prunes to meals, while explaining how these tasty, dried fruits support health and wellness - at all life stages. “California Prunes deliver fiber, phytonutrients, vitamins and minerals,” said Bonci, “so they provide the wealth on your shelf for digestive, bone and immune health.” Here are creative ways to use prunes to support your family’s well-being. 1. KIDS AND TEENS It’s never too early to establish healthy eating patterns. Nutrient-dense foods like prunes can not only help maintain healthy weight during growth and development but also help build strong bones as a preventative measure against bone fractures. Bone mass is acquired while kids are still growing. Physical activity helps develop healthy bones, but what kids eat matters, too. California Prunes contain nutrients like boron, potassium and Vitamin K that help support healthy bones and improve bone strength. How can you get your kids to try them? “With kids and teens we have to bring the flavor, the familiar and the fun,” said Bonci. This twist on the classic PB and J is great for lunches or on-the-go snacking: WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|SEPTEMBER 2021 ISSUE
PEANUT BUTTER AND CALIFORNIA PRUNE PINWHEELS Ingredients: 1 whole-grain tortilla or wrap (8 inches) 2 tablespoons California prune puree 1 ½ tablespoons peanut butter (crunchy or smooth) Directions: Lay whole grain tortilla onto cutting board. Use soft spatula to spread peanut butter in thin layer, covering side-toside but leaving one edge uncovered (allowing for spreading while rolling). Repeat with prune puree, spreading in even layer atop peanut butter. Starting at one end, tightly roll tortilla until you reach uncovered edge. Use sharp knife to slice cross-wise into pinwheels. Enjoy immediately or store in airtight container or sealed bag until ready to eat. Makes 1 serving
