Dates Benefits: Dates, the nature’s sweet superfood that originates from the date palm tree, have nourished civilizations for millennia. Prized in Middle Eastern and Ayurvedic traditions for their nutrient density, dates are packed with fibre, antioxidants, natural sugars and minerals like iron, potassium and magnesium.
When it comes to dates benefits, the options are endless. Dates boost energy levels and support heart health.
Dates Benefits
The high fibre content of dates (approximately 7g per 100g serving) promotes digestive regularity by easing bowel movements and feeding gut bacteria. Potassium (696mg per serving) and magnesium helps in relaxing blood vessels and reducing cholesterol and blood pressure levels. Antioxidants such as phenolic acids and flavonoids in dates help combat inflammation, oxidative stress and free radicals, potentially warding off cancer, brain decline and diabetes.
Dates are an ideal Ramzan iftar staples or pre-workout fuel as energy surges without spikes come from fructose, glucose and sucrose balanced by fibre. Dates improve the health of bones via calcium and phosphorus. They also support natural labour in pregnancy because of uterine-toning compounds while facilitating brain function via B6 for mood-regulating neurotransmitters. For men, the zinc in dates enhances fertility while iron in dates combats anaemia in women.
Best Ways to Consume Dates
You can choose soft, plump Medjool or Khajoor varieties and store them in airtight containers, away from direct heat, moisture and sunlight. Ideally, you should eat 3-5 dates every day, pitted and whole, for steady energy. You can even blend them into smoothies with almonds for a nutrient bomb or just chop dates into oats and yogurt.
You can even stuff them with nuts for energy ladoos or simmer in milk for a soothing kheer. Dates can also be used as a natural sweetener in baked goods, chutneys or herbal teas, reducing sugar requirements by half.
Dates (when soaked overnight) prevent constipation as their soluble and insoluble fibres such as pectin help in bulking stool and promoting peristalsis while acting as mild laxatives. Dates help in nourishing blood, balancing pitta and fighting winter colds, not chill the body.
Dates with Ghee in the Morning: A Winning Combo?
Yes, dates with ghee shine as an Ayurvedic power duo, especially mornings. The healthy fats in dates improve the absorption of nutrients while the warmth of dates helps in countering any cooling effect. This mix lubricates intestines, ignites agni (digestive fire), and provides sustained fuel, ideal for winter chill or vata imbalances.
Ideally you should consume dates on an empty stomach by warming 2-3 deseeded dates with a teaspoon of ghee. This would help you with vitality, glowing skin and joint lubrication.
Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides general information only. It is not a substitute for a qualified medical opinion in any way. The methods and claims mentioned in this article should be considered as suggestions only; DNP India neither confirms nor denies them. Always consult a doctor before following any such suggestions/treatments/medications/diets.