Dates are nature’s sacred treasure which comes with numerous health benefits and is mainly grown in tropical regions of the world. Dates are the fruit of the date palm tree and have become quite popular in recent years. Almost all dates sold in Western countries are mainly dried. Depending on the variety, fresh dates are fairly small in size and range in color from bright red to bright yellow. ‘Medjool’ and ‘Deglet Noor’ dates are the most commonly consumed varieties within India. But very few people are aware of the amazing health benefits that these tasty dried fruits can offer to you. Moreover, it’s a happy fruit that can instantly light up your mood.
Amazing Health Benefits of Dates
It’s More Nutritious than You Think
Dates are one of the most nutritious than any other dried fruits. Since they’re dried, their calorie content is higher than most fresh fruit. The calorie content of dates is similar to that of other dried fruits such as raisins and figs.
A 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving provides the following nutrients:
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Calories: 277
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Carbs: 75 grams
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Fiber: 7 grams
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Protein: 2 grams
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Potassium: 20% of the RDI
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Magnesium: 14% of the RDI
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Copper: 18% of the RDI
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Manganese: 15% of the RDI
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Iron: 5% of the RDI
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Vitamin B6: 12% of the RDI
May Promote Natural Labor
The most important thing in which very few people are aware that dates can be a great companion to pregnant women. As per reports, dates have been studied for their potential to promote and ease late-term labor in pregnant women. Eating these fruits throughout the last few weeks of pregnancy may promote cervical dilation and lower the need for induced labor. They may also be helpful for reducing labor time.
High in Antioxidant
Dates are also high in antioxidants, which can contribute to many of their health benefits.
Dates are High in Fiber
Fiber is important for your overall health. With almost 7 grams of fiber in a 3.5-ounce serving, including dates in your diet is a great way to increase your fiber intake. Moreover, the fiber in dates may be beneficial for blood sugar control. Fiber slows digestion and may help prevent blood sugar levels from spiking too high after eating. As per health reports, dates have a low glycemic index (GI), which measures how quickly your blood sugar rises after eating a certain food.
Dates have Disease-Fighting Antioxidants
Antioxidants have a number of health benefits to offer, including a reduced risk of several diseases. Antioxidants protect your cells from free radicals, which are unstable molecules that may cause harmful reactions in your body and lead to disease
Here’s an overview of the three most potent antioxidants in dates:
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Flavonoids: Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and have been studied for their potential to reduce the risk of diabetes, Alzheimer's disease and certain types of
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Carotenoids: Carotenoids are proven to promote heart health and may also reduce the risk of eye-related disorders, such as macular degeneration.
Dates Promotes Brain Health
Reports suggest that eating dates may help improve brain function.
Laboratory studies have found dates to be helpful for lowering inflammatory markers, such as interleukin 6 (IL-6), in the brain. High levels of IL-6 are associated with a higher risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Additionally, animal studies have shown dates to be helpful for reducing the activity of amyloid-beta proteins, which can form plaques in the brain.
When plaques accumulate in the brain, they may disturb communication between brain cells, which can ultimately lead to brain cell death and Alzheimer’s disease.
Dates are Excellent Natural Sweetener
Dates can be an excellent replacement for sugar. Dates are a source of fructose, which is a natural type of sugar found in fruit.
