Dates are a staple in the UAE and are a delicious treat that have many nutritional benefits. According to an article on the Organic Facts website, the health benefits of dates are countless.
Below are a few of the medicinal ways in which dates have been used:
Fibre to ease constipation
Dates are cited as a strong source of natural fibre. As a laxative fruit, it is useful in relieving constipation. Eating dates help to protect the colon mucous membrane from cancer-causing chemicals binding to it in the colon. In order to get the laxative benefit of dates, it is recommended that they are soaked overnight in water. Then eat the soaked dates in the morning.
Intestinal disorders
Dates are a great remedy for intestinal disturbances. Generous consumption of dates checks the growth of pathogenic bacteria inside the stomach and helps to stimulate the growth of friendly bacteria in the intestines. The nicotinic content in the dates is said to be beneficial for curing many kinds of intestinal disorder.
Anaemia
Dates have impressive levels of iron which make them a perfect dietary supplement for people suffering from anaemia. The high level of iron balances out the inherent lack of iron in anaemic patients, increasing energy and strength, while decreasing feelings of fatigue and sluggishness.
Allergies
Dates contain organic sulphur, which have a valuable amount of health benefits, including the reduction of allergic reactions and seasonal allergies. Organic sulphur compounds can have a positive impact on the amount of suffering people experience from Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis (SAR). Dates can stem the effects of seasonal allergies through its contributions of sulphur to the diet.
Nervous system health
Potassium is one of the prime ingredients in promoting a healthy and responsive nervous system. It also improves the speed and alertness of brain activity. Therefore, dates are a wonderful food source for people as they begin to age and their nervous system become sluggish or unsupported. The vitamins present in dates make it an ideal boost to nervous system health and functionality for as well for people who want to keep their minds sharp.
Increased stamina
Fresh dates compose of soft, easily digestible flesh and simple sugars like fructose and dextrose. When eaten, is said to replenish energy and revitalise the body instantly. Stamina is important in effectively carrying out many daily functions. Dates are also known to increase sexual stamina. To increase stamina by using dates, use a handful of dates and soak in fresh goat’s milk for the night. Then grind dates in the same milk and add a mixture of cardamom powder and honey. This should provide you with a very useful tonic.
A healthy body
Dates are helpful in maintaining a healthy diet. They consist of sugar, fats, proteins and many essential vitamins. When consumed with cucumber paste, dates can help to keep weight at a balanced level, thus, preventing over-slimming. One kilogram of dates contains almost 3,000 calories. This is sufficient to meet the daily requirements of 2500 calories.
Dates have antioxidant flavonoids such as ß-carotene, lutein, and zea-xanthin. These antioxidants have the ability to protect cells and other structures in the body from the harmful effects of oxygen-free radicals. Thus, eating dates offer some protection from colon, prostate, breast, endometrial, lung, and pancreatic cancers.
Heart health
Dates are also touted as beneficial for heart health. They are a rich source of potassium, which aid in minimising the risk of stroke and other heart related diseases. Additionally, dates are described as a healthy and delicious way to reduce the levels of LDL cholesterol in the body. LDL cholesterol is cited as a major contributor to heart attacks, heart disease, and stroke. Therefore, when taken twice a week, dates can seriously improve the overall health of the heart.
Benefits for women
M.E. Jalbani in the article, ‘Date Palm Industry: Present Challenges & future Prospects’, notes that dates have tremendous health benefits for pregnant and lactating women. Dates contain certain stimulants, which strengthen the muscles of uterus in the last few months pregnancy. This assists in the dilation of the uterus at the time of delivery. Dates are considered as high- energy food. They are recommended for women in the post–partum period and lactating days. It is believed that dates increase the nutritive value of lactating mothers’ milk. Dates also protect against building cholesterol.
Intoxication relief
The UAE has very strict laws against alcohol intoxication. Dates are credited with providing quick relief from alcohol intoxication. They should be rubbed and soaked overnight for best results.
There is no doubt that dates are delectable. For the health conscious individual, it helps to know that in addition to enjoying delicious dates, you also gain more nutritionally. Keep in mind that care should be exercised when selecting dates for consumption. Always wash thoroughly before you eat to remove impurities present on the surface. Here’s to a healthier you!
