Their reputation as constipation curers is well earned: prunes contain hydroxyphenylisatin, a chemical that stimulates the bowel muscles and works as a very gentle laxative.

Prunes are an excellent source of soluble fiber, which also helps prevent constipation and, in turn, helps reduce cancer (particularly colon cancer) risk.

Prunes have heart-protecting value as well.
Their soluble fiber helps reduce levels of plaque-producing LDL cholesterol, and their high potassium content regulates blood pressure.

Prunes are rich in iron and contain good amounts or niacin, beta-carotene, and vitamin B6, along with copper and boron, making them essential for regular as well as irregular times.

Many people think that if certain foods are good, a lot is better.
This is not always the case, and high doses of certain food are actually toxic.

Read about the healthy food, research the vitamins and minerals and check with your health care provider if you are unsure about how much to eat and how much may be too much.

The best way to get the daily requirement of 13 essential vitamins is to eat a balanced diet that contains a variety of foods and take a "Standardized" (quality) multivitamin supplement.