These little ones soft and soft fruits, from the date palm native to the arid zones of the Near and Middle East, are much more than just sweets. Often associated with periods of fasting, such as Ramadan and Lent, dates are not only symbols of generosity and sharing, but also sources of vital nutrition. We discover the multiple health benefits that these little wonders have to offer!
Dates offer a natural energy boost
Need an energy boost? Dates are there to serve us! Despite their small size, they indeed contain many interests nutritional. Natural source of vitamins (vitamins C, E, B2 and B3, A1, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6 and K), they are also full of minerals and are particularly concentrated in glucose, fructose and sucrose. The result ? They simply have the power to boost our energy ! It's undeniable: consuming dates provides the body with a supply of quick sugars which restore tone to our entire body! So whether before a workout or to combat afternoon fatigue, dates are the ideal natural and healthy snack!
Dates, a cocktail of minerals
Dates full of minerals ; they are rich in magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and calcium, othus providing a multitude of health benefits. And that’s saying something! These minerals:
- promote cellular hydration,
- reduce fatigue,
- facilitate the proper metabolism of carbohydrates and proteins,
- support the proper functioning of the nervous and muscular system.
Little extra: if we suffer anemia, we don’t hesitate to eat dates! According to'Sheikh Khalifa International University Hospital, the consumption of 100 g of dates provides the body with 11% of the recommended daily iron intake. And we know that this mineral contributes to the creation of red blood cells and the proper oxygenation of the body's cells. Very good news for our health!
Dates Improve Digestive Health
Dates are rich in dietary fiber, (7.3 g of dietary fiber per 100g), it's a fact. They then regulate intestinal transit and prevent constipation. And that's not all ! They also contain prebiotic compounds that nourish the good bacteria in the gut microbiota, which promotes healthy digestion! Then we don't forget that foods rich in fiber help preserve the healthy intestines. It's hard to deny yourself a little date during the day when you know that!
Dates, an ally for cardiovascular health
Regular consumption of dates can help maintain cardiovascular health! Their low sodium content and rich potassium help regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke. And since good news never comes alone: dates are also a rich source of antioxidants. The carotenoids and phenolic compounds present are therefore particularly beneficial for combating the accumulation of fats in the body, particularly in the arteries. Namely that the antioxidants also help counter the cell aging process. Simply put, the antioxidants found in dates can help reduce inflammation and protect the heart against cardiovascular disease.
Dates help control weight
Despite their natural sugar content, dates can be a wise addition to a weight loss diet when eaten with moderation. For what ? Because their richness in fiber helps promote satiety, which can help reduce food cravings and control appetite. Note that fiber also helps limit the absorption of fats and bad cholesterol. Then, they play an incredible role in the blood sugar control. Good news, right? On the other hand, we exercise moderation if we have diabetes because of their simple carbohydrate content!
And be careful not to overdo it! We find 282 calories in 100 grams of dates (which is relatively high), or around ten fruits. So of course, they are rich in nutrients and happen to be a highly energetic fruit but they contain lots of sugars. Including dates in your diet, we say yes. But on condition that it is a balanced and varied diet! Let's play.
Read also
- The Truth About Antioxidant Foods
- What foods should you combine to increase the benefits for the body?
