US Co-op supports World Osteoporosis Day and launches online bone health resource

An agricultural marketing co-operative in the United States, Sunsweet Growers, has launched a multi-media online resource hub in support of World Osteoporosis Day, to inspire and encourage customers to lead a healthy lifestyle.

As the official sponsor, Sunsweet supports the goal of helping reduce the risk of osteoporosis through a bone-healthy lifestyle, with a diet rich in fruit and vegetables, including prunes.

The California-based co-op, which has 250 members, produces a full line of dried fruit snacks and juices designed to fit today’s need for healthy and convenient food choices.

In one study, adding 5 or 6 (50g) prunes ­– which are a large part of Sunsweet’s offering – to the daily diets of postmenopausal women for six months was found to be preventative of bone loss.

“Nutrients found in prunes – vitamin K, phosphorus, boron and potassium and polyphenols – contribute to bone health,” said associate professor of nutrition at San Diego State University Dr Shirin Hooshmand, who carried out the study.

Led by the International Osteoporosis Foundation, World Osteoporosis Day takes place every year on 20 October to raise awareness around the importance of building healthy bones.

Over 200 million people worldwide are affected by osteoporosis, with an osteoporotic fracture occurring every three seconds. Taking preventative measures and making simple lifestyle shifts is key to navigating and preventing the risk. Nutrition, coupled with physical activity and early detection, plays an integral role in protecting the future of bones, says the study.