9 benefits of eating dates that will surprise you

Those little wrinkled sweet fruits are packed with everything you need for a healthy body. Read more about the benefits of eating dates

Little packets of goodness

Most of us may utilise dates only as a garnish for festive desserts or snack on them occasionally. But these wrinkled, desert fruits are powerhouses of essential vitamins and minerals that the body regularly requires.

You will be surprised to know that from improving digestion to increasing breastmilk levels, dates have myriad benefits. Here is why you should include dates on a daily basis in your family’s diet.

Dates improve haemoglobin levels

Dark dates are a rich source of iron and their regular consumption greatly improves haemoglobin levels in the blood. They hence are an excellent supplement for anaemic patients.

They improve digestion

Dates are a good source of soluble dietary fibre. When consumed regularly, they act as an effective laxative and regulate bowel movements. Constipated individuals are encouraged to eat soaked dates for immediate relief.

They increase breastmilk supply

Dates greatly aid lactation as they are loaded with iron and natural sugars that provide energy to the new mum during the confinement period. A nursing mother must include dates in her porridges to improve her breastmilk levels.

They maintain skin and hair health

A great source of calcium, magnesium and potassium, dates improve hair follicles and repair damaged and frizzy hair. These minerals also help in maintaining smooth and supple skin.

They are fat and cholesterol free

Dates are fat and cholesterol free, making them an ideal food for weight watchers. Snack on dates regularly and encourage your children as well to have seedless dates in-between meals as a nutritious snack.

Dates keep the heart healthy

Potassium, which is essential electrolyte required to control blood pressure, is found in large amounts in this fruit.

They maintain bone health

Dried dates are a good source of calcium and help in building up bones and teeth. Adding a teaspoon of dried and powdered dates to milk can considerably increase your daily dose of calcium.

They are natural sweeteners

The high natural sugar content of dates makes it an ideal replacement for refined sugar in foods. Diabetics can also indulge in desserts sweetened with dates as they are known to not increase blood sugar levels considerably. Care must taken on the amount consumed, though.

They regulate general body functions

Dates are rich in essential B vitamins as well which are required to maintain general body health. Vitamin B deficiency is linked to cause migraines. Munch on dates regularly to give your body its daily dose of vitamin B.

Preeti Athri

Nutrition