Dates might not be the staple food in South India. But we know them since centuries. Dates were found to be consumed from the days of Indus valley civilization. Dates were thought to have originated from Iraq and were found to be cultivated since 7000 BC. A Date like any other fruit is unique in providing health benefits. A few of them…

Cholesterol free:

Amazing but true! Dates won’t contain cholesterol. Besides, the total fat present in 100 grams of dates is merely 0.4 grams. Moreover dates contain considerable amount of soluble fiber. `Beta Glucan`- a soluble fiber that’s present in the dates is found to reduce the bad cholesterol levels. If you love to eat sweets without increasing your cholesterol… dates can be the nature’s best candy! The fibers present in Dates would also help for a perfect digestion.

Don’t be nervous:

Dates contain a great amount of potassium. But the sodium levels are negligible. High potassium and low sodium is definitely an ideal combination for the nerves. This helps us in maintaining sharp and healthy nerves. People who have a family history of Alzheimer’s might rely on the dates as a preventive measure.

Get. Set. Go… for the Energy!

Dates are rich in carbohydrates which would provide enough calories when needed. The natural sugars like glucose would get quickly dissolved in the blood providing instant energy. That might be the reason why Muslims eat date after they break their fast during the month of Ramadan. People who suffer with under weight problem can safely choose dates to gain some pounds.

Minerals!

Minerals like Calcium, Magnesium, Phosphorous, Potassium, Manganese and Iron are present in considerable amount within the dates. Iron helps in the formation of hemoglobin preventing us to be anemic. Magnesium helps to control High blood pressure. Calcium of course would help to build stronger bones and fight the onset of Osteoporosis. Many people aren’t aware that Phosphorous is as important as calcium for the bones. Manganese helps to maintain the metabolism in the body and controls the blood sugar.

And vitamins too…

Though Dates contain vitamins like A, B and K… the presence of vitamin B6  is considerable. B6 is helpful for us in too many ways. B6 helps our body to break down the food into energy. It is highly recommended for a healthy brain. It’s found to help the brain in fighting against depression and attention disorders.

- Nirjara.