Dates are low in fat (0.8 grams) and are cholesterol free.
Dates are rich in fibre and polyphenols
A single date boasts about a gram of fibre. According to the American Cancer Society, the average-sized adult needs to consume 20-35 grams of dietary soluble and insoluble fibres a day. Insoluble fibres increase the rate of intestinal transit. And soluble fiber may help control diabetes and lower cholesterol levels.
According to researchers at the University of Scranton in Scranton Pennsylvania, dates have the highest concentration of polyphenols among dried fruits, especially in TMG polyphenols which improve fatty liver. Polyphenols are potent, natural antioxidants that eliminate free radicals, unstable molecules that are a major cause of ageing and disease.
Dates are a natural energy booster…
A single date serving is said to contain around 31 grams of carbohydrates, making it the perfect energy boosting snack. It gives energy to a tired human body within half an hour of taking it. Carbohydrates include three grams of dietary fibre and 29 grams of naturally occurring sugars such as fructose, glucose and sucrose, providing quick energy that’s readily used by the body. Therefore dates can be a part of a healthy diet.
Dates help balance metabolism…
Dates are one of the best natural sources of potassium, an essential mineral that helps balance the body’s metabolism and maintain muscle contractions, including those in your heart. Your body also needs potassium to maintain a healthy nervous system. A 400 mg daily increase in potassium intake has been associated with a 40% reduction in the risk of having a stroke. This figure amounts to about one additional serving of dates a day.
Dates help keep your blood healthy…
Dates contain a variety of B-complex vitamins including thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B-6 and pantothenic acid. These vitamins have a variety of functions and help maintain a healthy body by metabolising carbohydrates and maintaining blood glucose levels, fatty acids for energy, and helping to make hemoglobin, the red and white blood cells. Dates are also rich in iron which is essential for red blood cell production.
Dates are known as an excellent remedy for alcoholic intoxication. They provide a quick relief of the latter.
Dates aid healthy bone development…
Dates contain magnesium, essential for healthy bone development and energy metabolism.
Dates help prevent intestinal disorders…
The nicotinic content that is present in dates is said to be beneficial for helping to heal many intestinal disorders. Continuous intake of dates boosts the amount of friendly bacteria naturally occurring in the intestines. Dates are a mild laxative food if consumed in the morning.
* The health benefits mentioned here might not be applicable to every individual. Remember, one of the key foundations to a healthy life is moderation and a balanced diet. If you feel as though you are lacking energy or nutrients in your diet, it is best to consult a General Practitioner, Nutritionist or Medical Professional to help you create a balanced meal plan that caters to your individual needs.