While Sphinx Date Co. may be a little biased towards these wonderful nuggets of deliciousness, Medjool Dates have some truly legit health benefits that make them worth incorporating into any healthy eating plan. Need some convincing? Here are five healthy reasons to enjoy dates:
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They are Nutritional Powerhouses — Each 3.5-ounce serving of dates packs seven grams of fiber as well as potassium, magnesium, B6 and iron. Dates are also high in antioxidants, another health benefit. Fiber keeps that digestive system running smoothly, and may even help control blood sugar through the slowing of digestion which can prevent blood sugar levels from spiking too high after a meal.
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They Contain Antioxidants — Dates are also high in antioxidants, including flavonoids that can reduce inflammation and perhaps even risk of diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and certain cancers; carotenoids that have been proven to promote heart health and may reduce specific eye-related issues such as macular degeneration; and phenolic acid, which can help lower risk of heart disease and cancer.
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They Can Help Build Strong Bones — Remember that campaign “milk: it does the body good?” Well milk may need to share the stage because it’s believed dates are good for bone health too! Dates contain minerals such as phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium that have been studied for their potential to prevent conditions such as osteoporosis and other bone-related issues, according to an article on PubMed.com.
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They Could Promote Brain Health — Make a “date” with improved learning ability, better memory, and even less anxiety just by eating dates! The study supporting this attributes dates’ antioxidant content for these healthy brain benefits.
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They’re Naturally Vegan, Nut-Free and Gluten-Free — There are a multitude of dietary needs and preferences out there. Some people eat a certain way because they enjoy it or have a moral commitment too it (such as not eating meat or utilizing any animal products) while others eliminate certain things from their everyday diet in the name of their own health — and some do a combination of both. Regardless, the good news is that dates check off a number of boxes — they are naturally sweet (without any added sugars or additives), naturally vegan, and naturally nut- and gluten-free. So they can be used in a variety of sweet and savory recipes that people with these dietary specifications can enjoy.
Beyond health benefits, dates are an easy, portable snack to nosh on all by themselves or to add to a side dish or main entrée. When exploring ways to add healthier foods into any meal plan, consider delicious dates any time of day!