Eat Dates - Live HealthyDates are a sweet, moist, and fibrous fruit that are juicy with a luscious taste. Quite a fewvarieties of dates exist, some of the famous ones being Medjool dates, Halawi, Deglet Noor,Barhi, Derhi, Thoory and Khalasah. All these date fruits are the product of the date palm and have the botanical name Phoenix dactylifera or Palma Dactylifera. Dates have different names indifferent countries, but they largely sound similar. For example, in French dates are called ‘dattier’, in German ‘dattel’, in Spanish ‘datil’, in Italian ‘datteri ’and in Dutch ‘dadel’. No matter what they are called, the fact remains that dates are a storehouse of energy, nutrition and fibre. They provide us with minerals, vitamins and essential nutrients. Some dates nutrition facts and their resulting health benefits are summarised below:

Cure for constipation

The high fibre content in dates provides roughage and ensures smoother bowel movements. Additionally, dates soaked in water overnight and consumed the next morning have a laxative effect that naturally cures constipation.

Treatment of anemia

Dates contain large quantities of iron, making them an excellent natural source for iron in the blood. Consuming dates therefore works as a home remedy for anemia and eliminates the need to take iron supplements.

Stronger teeth and bones

Medjool dates provide 15.4 milligrams of calcium per date. The manganese content in dates aids in absorption of calcium. Calcium, once absorbed by the body, strengthens teeth and bones.

Muscle building

Dates contain proteins that are easily assimilated by the body. These proteins in conjunction with minerals and vitamins build muscle and help the body function better.

Prevent stroke

Dates are rich in potassium, which reduces bad cholesterol and thus prevents strokes and heart attacks.

Weight loss and weight gain

Dates have no cholesterol and trans-fat. This means you can eat dates and not gain weight. Substituting fatty food with dates is recommended for healthy eating. However, these dates nutrition facts must also be considered - if eaten in large amounts, dates are contributors to weight gain. Hence, it is advisable to eat dates in recommended quantities only.

Medjool dates have a lot more benefits that make them a great addition to your regular diet. Incorporate dates in your diet in salads, juices or snacks, and enjoy their taste as well as health benefits.