Board Certified in Holistic Nutrition (BCHN) Practice Exam

Prunes are well-known for their natural laxative effects, primarily due to their high fiber content and the presence of sorbitol, a sugar alcohol that can draw water into the intestines, thus promoting bowel movements. In addition to this, prunes are rich in phenolic compounds, which are known to have antioxidant properties. These compounds help protect against oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals that can damage lipids, including LDL cholesterol. This protective action is significant as it may reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases linked to oxidative damage.

While other options like figs, apples, and bananas also contain beneficial nutrients and some fiber, prunes stand out specifically for their pronounced laxative effects and their unique concentration of phenolic compounds that specifically aid in protecting LDL cholesterol from oxidative damage.