6 health benefits of dates
The fruits are actually from the date palm tree; they are either referred to as dates or date fruits. In Nigeria, date fruits are one of the common fruits consumed by Nigerians. It is known as Dabino or Dabinu in Hausa. It is mostly grown and cultivated in the northern part of Nigeria.
1. Dates for weight gain.
Dried fruits, such as dates, prunes, apricots, figs, sultanas, currants, and raisins, contain more calories than their fresh counterparts, making them great options for healthy weight gain. In addition, they tend to pack 3–5 times more micronutrients.
2. Dates for skin.
Dates are an excellent source of vitamin C and D which helps to maintain your skin elasticity and keeps your skin smooth. Dates also come with anti-ageing properties and prevent the accumulation of melanin
3. Dates for Diabetes
Dates have a low GI, which means they’re less likely to spike your blood sugar levels, making them a safe choice for people with diabetes. Moreover, dates have a medium GL, which means that 1 or 2 fruits at a time are a good choice.
4. Dates for pregnancy
Dates also contain the B vitamin folate, an important nutrient during pregnancy as it prevents serious birth defects such as spina bifida. Doctors recommend that pregnant women take folate in a folic acid supplement to reach the daily recommended amount of 600 mcg. Dates provide 15 mcg of folate per 100-gram serving.
5.Dates as Natural sweetener
Dates are an incredibly concentrated source of sugar but all packaged together with fiber, nutrients, and antioxidants just as nature intended. For this reason, Medjool dates are my favorite natural sweetener.
6. Dates for Brain
Eating dates may help improve brain function. Laboratory studies have found dates to be helpful for lowering inflammatory markers, such as interleukin 6 (IL-6), in the brain. High levels of IL-6 are associated with a higher risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
