Dates or Phoenix dactylifera are the fruits that come from a type of palm tree. Dates are native to the Middle Eastern region of Iraq. These are sweet in taste, and a powerhouse of nutrients. Deglet Noor and Medjool dates are the most commonly preferred types of dates.
Dates are rich in calories, vitamins, and minerals which include niacin (vitamin B3), retinol (vitamin A), vitamin K, Folic acid, phosphorous, manganese, calcium, potassium, and others. Intake of dates on regular basis can relieve occasional diseases and serious health problems, as dates are high in antioxidants. It is a versatile fruit.
10 Enormous Health Benefits of Dates
Rich in Fiber
In many parts of the world, dates are used as natural laxatives. Dates are rich in soluble fiber. Dates on regular consumption, may increase bowel movements and reduce the risk of developing constipation, due to rich in dietary fiber.
Maintain Blood Sugar Levels
Dates are beneficial for maintaining blood glucose levels in the body. As we know, dates contain fiber, which slows down digestion, which in turn controls blood sugar levels from rising. Intake of dates is beneficial for diabetic patients. Dates can increase insulin production and decrease the rate of glucose (sugar) absorption in the intestine, resulting in low GI (Glycemic Index). Doctors recommend to diabetic patients to take 2 – 3 dates (at a time).
Reduce the Risk of Hypertension
Dates are rich in potassium. It is clear that excess sodium (salt) intake, leads to high blood pressure or results in hypertension. As dates are high in potassium, that controls blood pressure by excreting sodium from the body and also helps to regulate blood pressure and blood volume.
Improves Brain Health
Dates are beneficial for brain health. Excessive inflammation in the body results in brain disorders. Dates contain anti-inflammatory agents such as cortisol and other oxidants including flavonoids, that can reduce inflammation in the body. Regular intake of dates may prevent neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease, thus promoting brain health.
Reduce the Risk of Colon Cancer
Abnormal cell growth in the colon results in colon cancer. According to research, it is revealed that intake of dates helps to nourish intestinal bacteria, reduce inflammation in the body, reduce the risk of developing cancerous cells, and ultimately decrease the risk of developing colon cancer, as dates are high polyphenols, antioxidants, and some other nutrients.
Improves Fertility in Men
Infertility being a common issue is that many people (men) suffering from. Infertility is caused due to excessive consumption of alcohol, smoking, and other factors. Intake of dates, sperm count increases, due to high nutritional values in the dates. According to studies, it is clear that dates reduce the signs of infertility in men same like walnuts.
Aids with Gut Health
Dates improve gut health. The fiber in dates is beneficial for your intestines and gut. As we know, taking dates can relieve occasional constipation. Soluble fiber converts into prebiotic nutrition to preserve healthy gut microbiota and eventually eliminate harmful chemicals from the body. Dates will boost your natural resistance capacity and supports the immune system within a short duration.
Strengthen your Bones
Dates are rich in calcium content same as figs. Dates can improve bone health as it is high in vitamin K, phosphorous, magnesium, potassium, and calcium levels, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and arthritis. These micronutrients will maintain the structural integrity of bones. Regular intake of dates, help to make your bones strong.
Prevent Night Blindness
Deficiency of vitamin A or retinol or carotenoids antioxidants, results in poor vision, even though their eyes have a great shape. Dates are rich in vitamin A. Daily intake of dates may reduce the risk of eye-related problems, including macular degeneration, prevent the risk of developing night blindness.
Promote Healthy Skin
Dates help in skin nourishment. Dates contain vitamin C, vitamin D, and carotenoid (antioxidant) in large amounts, which can improve the skin’s elasticity, reduce the signs of aging, help you stay young for a long time, and protect you from harmful sun rays (UV rays). Antioxidants present in dates, prevent chromosome damage and helps to rejuvenate skin cells.
Conclusion
Dates are rich in several nutrients, fiber, antioxidants that help you to prevent the risk of several diseases. It is easiest to add to your diet. Dates can lower blood pressure, maintain blood sugar levels and reduce cholesterol levels, which helps to prevent atherosclerosis, heart diseases. Dates are rich in antioxidants, that can reduce the risk of colon cancer.
Intake of this fruit improves brain health, memory and strengthens your bones. Protects your skin from damage, provides wrinkle-free skin, and promotes skin health. Daily intake of dates, is beneficial to your eyes. Dates are beneficial to your health when you take them in normal quantities.
