The Daily Date: A Sweet and Healthy Habit
Dates have been hailed as Israel's favorite 'natural sweet,' and for good reason. Beyond their delightful taste, these little fruits are packed with essential nutrients like calcium, magnesium, dietary fiber, and potassium. Here are some surprising health benefits you won't want to miss.
- שירה דאבוש (כהן)
- פורסם כ"ד תשרי התשע"ז
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Dates have been hailed as Israel's favorite 'natural sweet,' and for good reason. While the date family includes several varieties, all of them contain unusually high levels of calcium. In addition to calcium, dates are rich in other vital nutrients like magnesium, dietary fiber, and potassium. Here are some surprising health benefits you won't want to miss:
Due to their high calcium content (approximately 64 mg of calcium per 100 grams), incorporating one or two dates into your daily diet can help those with osteoporosis strengthen their bones.
The dietary fiber found in dates contributes significantly to regulating the digestive system, maintaining its health, and ensuring proper function. Dates assist in flushing out waste from the body and improving intestinal function, making them highly recommended for those experiencing digestive issues.
No wonder dates are crowned as the 'most loved natural sweet by Israelis.' Their mild sweetness serves as a substitute for a wide range of unhealthy sweets packed with notorious white sugar, which is linked to numerous health issues. Recent studies have shown that consuming one date a day can lower the risk of depression and anxiety while boosting our general mood, all without the sugar pitfalls (note: individuals with diabetes should avoid dates entirely, and others should consult their doctor for appropriate consumption).
A study conducted a few years ago at the Technion investigated the link between consuming various types of dates and the risk of developing atherosclerosis, Alzheimer's, and cancer. It was found that Medjool and Halawi dates are particularly beneficial due to their high antioxidant (polyphenol) content. These dates notably reduced blood lipid levels (triglycerides) and enhanced the activity of enzymes responsible for protecting cholesterol from oxidation (note that high oxidation levels can lead to elevated cholesterol, atherosclerosis, and even heart attacks).
- The dietary fiber in dates, along with their natural sugars (glucose and fructose), makes them a highly nutritious and tasty health snack that provides immediate energy. Many athletes consume them close to their workouts due to their complete lack of fats.
