Written By Sam Henselijn
10 Health Benefits of Dates. Originating from the middle east, dates are a popular tree fruit that anyone can enjoy. In addition to being a tasty snack, dates come with incredible health benefits! Here are 10 health benefits of dates. Before we dive right into how much they can benefit you and your body, let’s take a moment to discuss what exactly a date is. History lesson time!
What Is a Date?
Dates are stone fruits, meaning they have a seed hidden in the
middle of the fruit itself. This is similar to fruits like mangoes, lychees, and plums. They grow on date palm trees in huge bunches; namely from the middle east. Dates have been enjoyed for thousands of years, and are a staple in many different cultures and cuisines.
Egypt is the current largest producer of dates, however, most middle eastern countries produce this sweet fruit!
Types of Dates
There are dozens of different types of dates, but the most common are Medjool dates.
Aside from the popular Medjool date, there are many different kinds you can enjoy! They all look slightly different, and have different flavor profiles. Here are the top 3 dates you should try.
- Medjool dates have a very rich and sweet taste.
- They are soft and slightly fibrous.
- These dates originate from Palestine, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan.
Piarom Dates
- These dates are darker than others, and have a thin layer of skin on the outside.
- They taste sweet, and almost like toffee or caramel.
- Piarom dates have been cultivated since 6,000 BC and are universally enjoyed.
Mazafati Dates
- Mazafati dates have a thick, dark flesh.
- They are chocolatey and taste like brown sugar.
- They originate in the middle east as well, primarily from Iran.
Now on to the best part!
10 Health Benefits of Dates
- Fiber
A single serving contains nearly 7 grams of fiber. Fiber is essential to your digestive health. Likewise, blood sugar levels can greatly benefit from the consumption of dates. The fiber found in dates slows your digestion down, which in turn prevents your blood sugar from spiking too high after meals.
- Potassium
Potassium deficiency is extremely common, and dates can help with that. They have almost double the potassium as bananas. Getting enough of this mineral will help with your breathing and muscular functions. Your nervous system will also thank you for the boost!
- Magnesium
The magnesium found in dates can help combat things like depression, and chronic inflammation. Not only that, but eating dates can help with migraine attacks, which in turn helps with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Those who suffer symptoms of PMS can benefit from the magnesium support, as well!
- Calcium
Bone strength and growth relies on a good source of calcium, and dates can provide that. Along with bones, calcium is the key component for a healthy cardiovascular system. Maintaining your daily dose of the mineral helps your body avoid blood clotting, while also relaxing muscles.
- Copper
Supports your body’s immune system, and plays a vital role in the creation of energy for body usage. A copper deficiency can place you at risk for osteoporosis, heart failure, and arthritis. Ensuring you have your daily value of copper lowers the risk of all of those ailments, and overall helps your body run smoother.
- Vitamin B6
Much like copper, Vitamin B6 supports and strengthens your immune system. Not only that, but it can guard you from infections and help you maintain a healthy nervous system. The dosage found in dates will improve circulation, better your mood, and help with depression and anxiety.
- Protein
Protein is essential to most body functions, and it is important to ensure you are getting enough in your diet. Achieving your daily value of protein will keep your body oxygenated, help with digestion, repairing damaged tissue, and regulating all functions. Protein is also very beneficial to those that exercise often, or are looking to maintain a healthy weight.
- Antioxidants
The antioxidants you can gain from dates will not only protect your heart, but it will keep your arteries clean. Meaning you will be at lower risk for heart attacks and strokes. Additionally, getting enough antioxidants will aid in avoiding digestive diseases.
- Carbohydrates
Healthy carbs are your body’s primary source of energy. Those who exercise regularly will benefit from getting a proper amount of carbs in their diet. Carbohydrates will help defend your body from diseases, and can help control or manage a healthy weight.
- Vitamin C
Getting vitamin C is one of the easiest ways to benefit your body in numerous ways. It helps with:
- Prenatal health concerns
- Eye disease
- Anti-aging
- Arthritis
- Cancer
So many benefits can be achieved with Vitamin C, and dates help provide a high amount of this essential vitamin. It can help you get over colds quickly, lower stress, prevent stroke, and reduce the risk of pneumonia and lung infections.
Now that you know the 10 health benefits of dates you can add them to your diet to ensure you get all the vitamins and minerals you need. In addition to the sweet and unique taste, you are gifted with countless benefits afterwards. Give them a try and see just how much they can help you and your body feel great.
Sam Henselijn Author’s Biography – Meet L’Orenta Nuts CEO
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