The date palm is a sweet fruit that is dark brown in color and grows on the palm tree. It grows mostly in desert climates such as hot and arid climates. Dating back to ancient times, dates have many benefits for human health. The most known benefits of dates can be listed as high nutritional value, facilitating normal birth and antioxidant effect.
Dates can be consumed as dried or fresh fruit. Dates, which are mostly used dried for flavor and texture, increase in nutritional value after drying. Containing high amounts of fiber, dates have a sweet taste. Since it has high iron content, it also plays an important role in the fight against anemia.
Nutritional Value of Dates
Dates are especially consumed dried. Thanks to the vitamins and minerals it contains, it benefits the heart and lungs. The nutritional value of an average sized dried date is as follows:
Calories: 25
Fat: 0.4 grams (g)
Carbohydrate 5 g
Fiber: 0.7 g
Sugar 4.5 g
Protein: 0.19 g
Vitamin B-6: 0.012 milligrams (mg)
Iron 0.1 mg
Magnesium: 4 mg
Potassium: 50 mg
What are the Health Benefits of Dates?
Dates have many benefits for human health; It contains calcium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium and zinc. Unlike sugar, it does not create empty calories, allowing sugar to enter the body in a healthier way. The health benefits of dates can be listed as follows:
Regulates Digestive Movements
Fruit, which has a dense fiber structure, prevents digestive system problems such as constipation. It supports digestive system functionality by regulating bowel movements.
Natural Sweetener Feature
Dates can also be used as a natural sweetener due to the sugar it contains. In addition, with the consumption of dates in moderation, problems that may arise from intense sugar consumption or the use of artificial sweeteners can be prevented.
Protects the Body Against Diseases
Dates are known as a food rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants protect cells from free radicals, which can cause harmful reactions in the body and lead to disease. At the same time, dates contain polyphenols and lignans that help prevent chronic disease risks.
Protects and Improves Bone Health
Dates are rich sources of copper, magnesium, selenium and manganese. These vitamins and minerals are important for keeping bones healthy and preventing bone-related health conditions such as osteoporosis. Dates also contain vitamin K and boron, which will affect bone health.
Supports Brain Health and Strengthens Memory
It is protective against Alzheimer's disease with its vitamin B content. When consumed regularly and in moderation, it reduces the possibility of developing such diseases.
Harm and Side Effects of Persimmon
Dates are one of the most important fruits with their health benefits and nutritional value. However, although it is not fully known, dates may have some harms and side effects. Since the sugar content is high, it is important for diabetics to consume in moderation. Due to its caloric value, people with weight problems should not consume too much. In addition to these, the harms of dates and some side effects it may cause are as follows:
- Sulfites in dried dates may cause allergic reactions in some people
- Itching, redness, watery eyes and sensitivity to light
- Difficulty breathing and wheezing
- Stomach problems such as constipation and bloating
- Skin rashes
- Tooth decay
- Weight gain
- Bloating
In case of an allergic reaction, consumption should be stopped and a specialist should be consulted immediately.