Dates are abundant in fiber which is essential for proper digestion.
The high natural sugar content in dates is what makes them a great alternative for ordinary sugar. Apart from being easily metabolized, they’re also filling and satisfy hunger. Abounding in nutrients, dates are an excellent fruit choice for both children and adults. Plus, dates are extremely beneficial for treating various conditions and illnesses such as anemia, high cholesterol, and even cancer.
Rich in Iron
Dates are highly efficient in treating anemia because they are a rich source of iron. 100g dates contain about 0.90g iron, which accounts for about 11% of the recommended daily intake. And, iron plays vital role in transferring oxygen in the blood. Generally, teenagers and pregnant women are the groups that need more iron.
Abundant in Eye Vitamins
Due to the fact that dates contain lutein and zeaxantine, they are often referred to as ‘eye vitamins.’ Lutein and zeaxantine are known to be highly beneficial for the eye retina and macula since they enhance the eyesight and prevent any possible damage to the macula, which deteriorates with age. If you want to improve your eyesight, you should eat more dates.
Treat Diarrhea
Moreover, dates contain calcium, a mineral important for diarrhea treatment. Plus, dates can do wonders for the renewal of the gut flora. Regular date consumption stimulates the proliferation of good bacteria in the intestines.
Help Constipation
Just as dates can help against diarrhea, they also stimulate good digestion and eliminate toxins from the body. If you suffer from constipation, you should leave a few dates in a glass of water overnight. During the night, dates will release their juice which is a great laxative, and will help the function of the intestines. And that’s not all; dates also stimulate metabolism because they have high fiber content – 100g dates contain 8.5g fiber.
Facilitate Delivery
According to an experiment conducted at the Jordan University for Science and Technology, consuming dates on regular basis starting 4 weeks before the due date can alleviate pain and reduce the bleeding. The study showed that women who consumed dates had much easier delivery as opposed to the women that did not eat this fruit. In addition, dates help women get through the postpartum depression more easily and produce enough milk for the baby.
Regulate Weight
Dates give a feeling of fullness and actually stimulate weight loss as a result of the many nutrients they contain. Eating a date on an empty stomach will not only regulate the work of your intestines, but also your blood sugar levels. But, have in mind that although dates don’t contain cholesterol, they do contain plenty of sugar, so excessive consumption would lead to weight gain instead (1kg dates contains 3,000 calories).
Strengthen the Heart
Dates have also shown to be beneficial for heart conditions so people with weak heart are advised to consume dates on a regular basis. Leave some dates in a glass of water overnight. In the morning blend the dates and the water together. You can drink this several times during the day.
Reduce Hypertension
Although dates contain little sodium, they are quite abundant in calcium. A serving of 5-6 dates contains near 80mg magnesium, a crucial mineral for blood vessel dilatation. According to research, 370mg magnesium per day can effectively reduce blood pressure.
Stroke Prevention
Thanks to its high potassium content, this amazing fruit is beneficial for maintaining a healthy nervous system. According to studies, the risk of stroke can be reduced for up to 40% with sufficient potassium consumption (about 400mg a day).
Food for the Brain
Furthermore, dates contain phosphorus, which is great for the brain.
Energy Booster
For optimal energy boosting, combine dates and milk as this will help you get the maximum amount of natural sugars this fruit contains (including glucose, sucrose and fructose).
Increase Libido
For increased sexual drive, soak a few dates in some goat milk and leave them overnight. In the morning, mix the fruit and milk, add honey and cardamom (spice) and drink it. This combination is equally beneficial for both men and women because it strengthens the body and increases the energy level.
Source: http://www.healthyfoodteam.com/
