Dates occupy a special place among dried fruits. They’re nourishing, budget-friendly and handy to have around -- 1-2 pieces makes for a good snack.
We’ve heard of the dadi-nani nuskas: Roasted, warm dates helps a cough.
To put on weight the good way, pairing dates with a banana, in maybe a shake, is an age-old go-to.
But what are the scientifically-backed benefits?
1. Nutritional Value
According to the US Department of Agriculture 100 gm dates, roughly 4 pieces, delivers close to 40 per cent of your daily copper needs, around 15 per cent of magnesium needs, nearly 14 per cent of manganese needs, 23 per cent of potassium needs and about 17 per cent of vitamin B6 needs for the day.
Along with these nutrients, dates also provide 7 gm dietary fibre, says Cleveland Clinic.
2. Reduces Labour Pain
Healthline suggests that dates may support the body’s birth process in the final stages of pregnancy. Consuming them regularly during the closing weeks might contribute to shorter labour durations, offering a smoother experience overall.
3. Boost Energy Level
This fruit contains a good amount of iron. Lack of iron in the body often leads to tiredness and low energy levels. Dates are mixture of carbohydrates and iron, which makes them an excellent choice for lifting your energy levels, offers WebMD.
4. Youthful Skin
Phytohormones, compounds often included in skincare formulas for their rejuvenating effects, occur naturally in dates and may be the key to healthier, more youthful-looking skin, according to Cleveland Clinic.
5. Good Gut Health
Dried dates are packed with polyphenols, that offer several health benefits, including improved digestion and overall gut comfort, states WebMD.
6. Alternative To White Sugar
Fructose, a naturally-occurring fruit sugar, is found in dates. Because they offer fibre, antioxidants and a range of nutrients, along with fructose -- unlike ordinary refined sugar -- they serve as an excellent, wholesome alternative to white sugar in various dishes and baked items, says Healthline.
7. Heart Health Support
The fruit provides a good amount of potassium, an essential electrolyte that supports healthy heart function says Medical News Today. But Medical News Today also advises that it’s worth remembering that a high potassium intake may be problematic for individuals with kidney-related conditions, so they should be cautious about consuming too much.